The group number is not related to geography. It is the order in which social security numbers are issued for a particular area. Before 1965 half the group numbers were used. Odd numbers were used below 10 and even numbers were used above 9. After 1965 the group number assignments changed so they continued with the low even numbers and high odd numbers. Group numbers for each are assigned in the following order:

Odd numbers, 01 to 09
Even numbers, 10 to 98
Even numbers, 02 to 08
Odd numbers, 11 to 99

All possible numbers are assigned with each group number before using the next group number. The group numbers can be used to find a chronological ordering of social security numbers within a region. When new group numbers are assigned to a state the old numbers are usually used up first.

Serial numbers are assigned in chronological order within each area and group number as the application is processed. Before 1965 the number assignment was transferred from field offices to the central offices. Serial numbers may have been assigned in a strange order. That no longer seems to be the case Currently, the serial numbers are assigned in strictly increasing order with each area and group combination.

If the person you are searching for is deceased you may want to try to see what information the social security administration has on file. You can do this by writing your local social security administration office. I believe the fee for this service is a total of $21.

The copy of the form that was completed at the time of application can be provided to you if the person is deceased. This will show you the person’s hand writing that completed the form, and provide personal information in regards to the person you are searching for. This information would include their parents names, address at the time of application, occupations, and birth date to name a few. I obtained my natural mother’s application after I had found her deceased and it was just amazing to see her handwriting. I think I would have recognized it any where.