Summer is right around the corner. Now is the time to plan for that summer job you really want. Whether you find the perfect outdoor job at a summer camp or as a golf caddy, or you get to practice your people skills in retail, fast food, or an amusement park, one thing's for sure: nothing's better than having fun this summer while earning a few extra dollars.

No matter how cool the job may be, make sure to look at the tax deductions when your first pay check is issued. Some of the taxes you're paying as an employee will help you quality for Social Security benefits later.

To learn more about your Social Security number or how you earn credits for Social Security coverage, visit us at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10072.html.

Here's another important thing to know as you go out to find summer employment: your Social Security number. Knowing your Social Security number is important as you enter the workforce. Treat your number as confidential information and keep it protected. Memorize your number and do not carry your Social Security card with you unless you need to show it to your employer. Keep it in a safe place with your other important papers.

If your employer wants to see your card and you don't know where it is, it's easy to apply for a new one. Simply complete an Application For a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) and show us original documents proving your U.S. citizenship or immigration status, age, and identity. The online application includes examples of documents you may need; you can find the application at www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.pdf. Then, take or mail your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office. We will mail your Social Security card to you.

If your card is lost or stolen, you can apply for a replacement for free. However, you are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime.

Whether you find a job filing paperwork or cooking burgers, have fun this summer as you work and save for your future.

Ginny Jordan is a Public Affairs Specialist for the Social Security Administration. Her weekly column on all things Social Security appears in the Sunday Edition of the Sun-Sentinel.

Ginny has agreed to let us reprint her articles here for your convenience.

Thank you Ginny!