How to Request a Replacement Social Security Card
You can request a replacement Social Security card through the Social Security Administration (SSA) in three ways: online at ssa.gov, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online method is fastest if you have a My Social Security account and meet certain requirements — you must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, have a valid state-issued ID, and a Social Security number already on file. If you do not meet those conditions, you can mail an process or visit an office in person.
The SSA does not charge a fee for a replacement card. Processing time varies: online requests typically take 1 to 2 weeks, while mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks. In-person visits at an office may be faster, but wait times depend on your local office's volume.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a replacement card online, by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at a Social Security office.
- Online requests are fastest if you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a valid state ID and an existing Social Security number.
- You will need to show proof of identity, citizenship, and age — the exact documents depend on which method you choose.
- There is no fee for a replacement card, and you can track your request status online once it is submitted.
explore Online Through My Social Security
To request a replacement card online, go to ssa.gov and sign into your My Social Security account. If you do not have an account, you can create one on the same page. You will need an email address, a phone number, and answers to security questions based on your credit history.
Once logged in, select "Replacement Social Security Card" from the menu. You will answer questions about why you need a replacement (lost, stolen, damaged, or name change), confirm your current information, and choose how you want to receive your card. The SSA will mail it to the address on file unless you specify otherwise. After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number and can check your request status anytime by logging back into your account.
This method works only if you meet all five requirements: U.S. citizen, age 18 or older, valid state-issued ID, Social Security number already on file, and a mailing address in the United States. If any of these do not explore to you, use the mail or in-person method instead.
explore by Mail With Form SS-5
To request a replacement card by mail, read Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov or pick one up at your local Social Security office. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, place of birth, and the reason you need a replacement.
You must include copies of documents that prove your identity, citizenship, and age. The SSA accepts a state driver's license or passport for identity, a birth certificate or passport for citizenship, and a state ID or passport for age. Do not send original documents — send certified copies or photocopies. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, phone number, and a brief explanation of what you are submitting.
Mail the completed form and documents to your local Social Security office. You can find the mailing address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Keep a copy of everything you send. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date the SSA receives your package.
explore In Person at a Social Security Office
Visit your local Social Security office to request a replacement card in person. Find your nearest office on ssa.gov by entering your zip code or city. Most offices accept walk-ins, but some require an appointment — check the office's page before you go. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Bring the same documents you would mail: proof of identity (state driver's license or passport), proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport), and proof of age (state ID or passport). Bring originals, not copies — the SSA staff will review them and return them to you. Bring your Social Security card if you still have it, even if it is damaged or you are replacing it because it was lost.
The staff will fill out Form SS-5 with you, verify your documents, and submit your request on the spot. You will receive a receipt with a confirmation number. Your replacement card will be mailed to you within 1 to 2 weeks in most cases.
Documents You Need for Each Method
| Method | Identity Proof | Citizenship Proof | Age Proof | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Valid state ID (shown on screen) | Not required | Not required | Digital upload |
| By Mail | State driver's license or passport | Birth certificate or passport | State ID or passport | Certified copies or photocopies |
| In Person | State driver's license or passport | Birth certificate or passport | State ID or passport | Original documents (returned to you) |
Tracking Your Request and Receiving Your Card
If you submitted your request online, log into your My Social Security account anytime to check the status. The SSA will show you whether your request is being processed, approved, or ready to mail. You can also see the expected delivery date once your card ships.
If you submitted by mail or in person, use your confirmation number to check status on ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Your replacement card will be mailed to the address you provided on your process. Standard mail delivery takes 5 to 7 business days after the SSA ships it. If you do not receive your card within the expected timeframe, contact your local Social Security office.
What to Do If Your Card Was Stolen or Compromised
If your Social Security card was stolen or you suspect someone is using your number fraudulently, request a replacement when ready using any of the three methods above. You should also check your credit report for unauthorized accounts or activity. Visit annualcreditreport.com to request a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
If you find fraudulent accounts or charges, contact the credit bureau that issued the report and ask them to place a fraud alert on your file. You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. Keep records of all communications and documentation of the fraud. The SSA does not investigate identity theft — those reports go to the FTC and your local police department.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement Social Security card?
Online requests take 1 to 2 weeks, mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks, and in-person requests usually take 1 to 2 weeks. Times vary depending on your local office's workload and mail delivery speed in your area.
Can I request a replacement card if I changed my name?
Yes. You will need to provide proof of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Submit this document along with your other required documents using any of the three methods.
What if I do not have a state-issued ID for the online method?
You can still request a replacement by mail or in person. Both methods accept other forms of identity proof, such as a passport, military ID, or tribal ID. Check ssa.gov for the full list of acceptable documents.
Can someone else request a replacement card on my behalf?
A parent or legal guardian can request a card for a minor in person or by mail. For adults, only you can request your own card. If you are unable to visit an office or mail documents yourself, you can have someone help you prepare the paperwork, but you must sign the process.
Is there a fee for a replacement Social Security card?
No. The SSA does not charge any fee for a replacement card. If a website or service charges you to request a replacement, it is not an official SSA service.