You can order a replacement card by mail, in person, or online depending on your state

The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues replacement cards at no cost. You do not need to visit an office in person — most states now let you request one online through ssa.gov/myaccount, by mail, or by going to your local Social Security office. The fastest route is usually online if your state participates in the program, which takes about 5 to 14 business days. Mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks. In-person requests are processed the same day in some offices, though wait times vary.

You will need to prove your identity and citizenship or legal residency status. What counts as proof depends on which method you use and what documents you already have. The SSA has a specific list of acceptable documents, and bringing the wrong ones will delay your request.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov/myaccount if your state participates, which is the fastest option for most people.
  • Mail and in-person requests both work but take longer — mail takes 2 to 4 weeks, and in-person varies by office.
  • You must bring or upload proof of identity and proof of citizenship or legal residency; the SSA has a specific list of documents they accept.
  • You do not need your original Social Security card to request a replacement, and there is no fee.

Ordering online through your Social Security account

If you live in a state that offers online card requests, you can order through ssa.gov/myaccount. You will need to create or sign into your account using your email, username, or phone number. The site will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history or by uploading a photo of your driver's license or state ID.

Once you are verified, you can request a replacement card directly. The SSA will mail it to the address on file with them. You do not upload documents — the system checks what the SSA already has. If your address has changed, update it before you request the card, or it will arrive at an old address.

Not all states participate yet. If your state is not listed on the ssa.gov website, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead. The SSA website tells you which states offer online requests.

Requesting by mail

Fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) and mail it with copies of your identity and citizenship documents to your local Social Security office. You can read the form from ssa.gov or pick one up at any Social Security office. Do not send original documents — send copies only, as the SSA will not return them.

Mail your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form for your state. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks from the day the SSA receives your envelope. If you need the card faster, go in person instead.

Keep a record of what you sent and when. If you do not receive your card within 4 weeks, contact your local Social Security office with the date you mailed it.

What documents you need to bring or upload

You must prove your identity and your citizenship or legal residency status. The SSA accepts a limited list of documents for each category.

For identity proof, the SSA accepts: a current driver's license, state ID card, passport, military ID, or employee ID. If you do not have any of these, you can use a school ID, library card, or insurance policy — but the SSA has specific rules about which ones work. Call your local office before you go if you are unsure.

For citizenship or legal residency, bring your U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card (green card). If you were born outside the U.S., your birth certificate must be from a U.S. territory or have a raised seal and official signature. A photocopy of your passport works. If you have a green card, bring the original or a certified copy.

If you are replacing a card because yours was lost or stolen, you do not need to report it to the SSA first — just request the replacement with the documents above.

Going to a Social Security office in person

Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator. Bring your original identity document and original citizenship or residency document. The office will make copies for you. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some now require you to book one online or by phone. Check your local office's website first.

Bring the documents listed above. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must go with you. If you are explore on behalf of someone else, bring a power of attorney or guardianship papers.

Processing times vary by office. Some offices issue the card the same day; others mail it within 1 to 2 weeks. Ask the staff member when you can expect it.

If you have changed your name

You can request a card with your new name at the same time you request a replacement. Bring proof of your name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The SSA will update your name in their system and issue a card with the new name.

If you changed your name but do not need a replacement card, you can still update your name with the SSA by submitting Form SS-5 with your name-change document. This updates your Social Security record even if you keep your old card.

Tracking your card after you request it

If you requested your card online, you can check the status in your Social Security account. Log in to ssa.gov/myaccount and look for the card request status. The system will tell you whether it has been mailed and when to expect it.

If you requested by mail or in person, the SSA does not provide tracking. Call your local office if you have not received your card within the expected timeframe. Have the date you submitted your request ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my original Social Security card to get a replacement?

No. You can request a replacement even if you have lost your card or never received one. You only need to prove your identity and citizenship or legal residency status.

How much does a replacement card cost?

There is no fee. The SSA issues replacement cards at no cost. Be cautious of websites or services that charge money to request a card — they are not affiliated with the SSA.

Can I get a card with a different name than what is on my Social Security record?

No. The card will show the name in the SSA's system. If you have changed your name legally, bring your name-change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) when you request the card, and the SSA will update your record.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You can still get a Social Security card. Bring your birth certificate from a U.S. territory, or a birth certificate from another country with a raised seal and official signature. You will also need proof of legal residency, such as a green card or visa.

How long does it take to get a card if I go in person?

Some offices issue the card the same day; others mail it within 1 to 2 weeks. Call or visit your local office's website to ask about their specific timeline before you go.