What is the Selective Service System (SSS)?

The Selective Service System is an independent agency of the U.S. government that maintains information on potential military personnel. Almost all male U.S. citizens and male immigrants residing in the U.S. between the ages of 18 and 25 are required to register with the Selective Service. While there is no current military draft, registration makes it possible to quickly reinstate one if necessary for national security reasons. It also provides a database that can be used for various civic and national needs beyond military conscription.
 

The Selective Service System requested me to submit Form 3C. Should I?

Whether or not you should submit SSS Form 3C depends entirely on why SSS requested it. SSS Form 3C is the Contribution Collection List for self-employed, voluntary, and non-working spouse members. If you fall into any of those categories and SSS asks you to submit, then yes, you should. Ignoring the request could lead to discrepancies in your contributions and potentially affect your eligibility for SSS benefits. If you have any questions about why you were asked to submit it, please reach out to SSS directly for clarification.
 

What are the disadvantages if I fail to submit the Selective Service System Form 3C?

Failing to register with the Selective Service System (SSS) when required (generally for males aged 18-25) can have several significant disadvantages:

• Ineligibility for Federal Student Aid: You will likely be ineligible for federal student loans, grants, and other educational aid programs. This can significantly hinder your ability to afford college or other forms of higher education.
• Ineligibility for Federal Employment: You will be ineligible for jobs with the federal government. This includes many well-paying and stable career opportunities.
• Ineligibility for Many State Government Jobs: Many states have laws similar to the federal government, barring those who haven't registered with Selective Service from state government employment.
• Delay or Denial of Naturalization: If you are a male immigrant applying for U.S. citizenship, failure to register with Selective Service before the age of 26 can potentially delay or jeopardize your naturalization application.
• Potential Criminal Prosecution: While extremely rare, failure to register is technically a felony punishable by a fine of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment of up to five years. However, the Justice Department has not prosecuted anyone for failure to register since 1986.
• Loss of Opportunities: Certain job training programs and other government benefits may be unavailable to those who haven't registered.
• Social Stigma: While less tangible, some may view failure to register as a lack of civic responsibility.

Important Considerations:

• Registration is generally required: Most male U.S. citizens and male immigrants residing in the U.S. are required to register within 30 days of their 18th birthday and before their 26th birthday.
• Exemptions: There are some exemptions, such as for individuals with specific disabilities or those who are permanently institutionalized.

In summary, failing to register with Selective Service can have serious consequences related to education, employment, and citizenship. It is generally advisable to comply with the registration requirement to avoid these potential disadvantages.
 

Where can I register for the Selective Service System Form 3C?

You can register at https://www.sss.gov/register/ 

You will likely receive a letter similar to the one below:

And the PIN may be needed when you make a call to the above number.

Summary

• SSS (Selective Service System) is a registration system in preparation for a potential draft. While there is currently no active draft, all males between the ages of 18 and 25 are required to register, and that includes permanent residents (green card holders).
• Permanent residents aged 18-25 must register with the Selective Service System (SSS).
• Failure to register after the age of 26 may result in denial of a citizenship application.