Where to Request a Replacement Card

You can request a replacement Social Security card in three ways: online through the Social Security Administration's website, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online option is the fastest if you meet the requirements — you must have a state-issued ID, a Social Security number, and a mailing address in the United States.

To start online, go to ssa.gov/myaccount and create a my Social Security account if you don't have one. From there, you can request a replacement card and track its status. The card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after your request is processed.

If you cannot use the online system, you can mail Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) to your local Social Security office, or bring the form in person. The mailing address for your region appears on the form itself. In-person requests at an office usually process faster than mail requests.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method through ssa.gov/myaccount is fastest for most people and delivers a card in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You will need a state-issued ID, your Social Security number, and a U.S. mailing address to request online.
  • If you cannot use the online system, you can mail Form SS-5 or bring it to your local Social Security office in person.
  • Replacement cards are free; the Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for lost, stolen, or worn cards.
  • You must prove your identity and citizenship or lawful immigration status when you request a card, whether online or in person.

Documents You Need to Bring or Upload

The documents required depend on whether you are requesting online or in person. For an online request, you upload a photo of your state-issued ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. You do not need to provide citizenship or immigration documents online if you already have a Social Security number.

If you are explore in person or by mail, bring or include an original or certified copy of one document proving your identity (state ID, passport, or driver's license) and one document proving citizenship or lawful immigration status. Acceptable citizenship documents include a U.S. birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. If you have a visa, employment authorization document, or green card, those work for immigration status.

Do not send original documents by mail — send certified copies instead. The Social Security Administration will not return originals, and you may need them for other purposes. You can obtain certified copies from the agency that issued the document, such as your state's vital records office for a birth certificate.

What Happens If Your Card Was Lost or Stolen

If your card was lost, you can request a replacement the same way you would for a worn or damaged card. You do not need to report the loss to the Social Security Administration first. However, if you believe the card was stolen and someone may use your number fraudulently, you should also monitor your credit report and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

You can check your Social Security earnings record and look for unauthorized work history by creating a my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount. This account also shows you when benefits will be available and lets you manage your information. If you spot fraudulent activity, contact the Social Security Administration's fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.

Processing Time and Card Delivery

Online requests typically process within 7 to 10 business days, and the card is mailed to your address. In-person requests at a Social Security office may be processed the same day or within a few days, depending on the office's workload. Mail requests take longer — usually 2 to 4 weeks from the time the office receives your form.

The Social Security Administration mails cards using standard mail, not expedited shipping. If you need the card urgently, requesting in person at your local office is your fastest option. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online through ssa.gov, which can reduce wait times.

Replacing a Card If You Changed Your Name

If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you can request a new card with your updated name. You will need to provide proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The process is the same as requesting a replacement card: you can do it online, by mail, or in person.

When you request online, upload a photo of the document showing your name change along with your state ID. If you are explore by mail or in person, include an original or certified copy of the name-change document. The Social Security Administration will update your record and issue a card with your new name.

Replacing a Card If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

If you have a valid Social Security number and lawful immigration status, you can request a replacement card. You cannot request a card online if you are not a U.S. citizen — you must explore by mail or in person. Bring or send your passport or visa, employment authorization document, or green card along with your identity document.

Some noncitizens have Social Security numbers because they work in the United States or receive benefits. If you fall into this category, the replacement process is the same, but you must show immigration documents to prove your status. If your immigration status has changed, contact the Social Security Administration before requesting a new card, as your number may need to be updated in their system.

What to Do If You Have Not Received Your Card

If you requested a card online or by mail and it has not arrived within the expected timeframe, log into your my Social Security account to check the status. The account shows you whether your request was received, is being processed, or has been mailed. If the status shows your card was mailed but you have not received it after 2 weeks, contact your local Social Security office.

When you call or visit, have your Social Security number ready. The office can verify the mailing address on file and reissue the card if it was lost in the mail. There is no charge to reissue a card that did not arrive. If your address has changed since you submitted your request, update it with the Social Security Administration before requesting a new card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a fee to get a replacement Social Security card?

No. The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for replacement cards, whether you request one online, by mail, or in person. If a website or service charges you to request a card, it is not an official Social Security service.

Can I get a temporary card while I wait for my replacement?

No temporary cards are issued. However, you can use your my Social Security account to show proof of your number to employers or other organizations that need it while you wait for the physical card to arrive. Some employers accept a screenshot or printout from your account as proof.

How many replacement cards can I request in a year?

You can request up to three replacement cards in a 12-month period and up to ten in your lifetime. If you need more than three cards in a year, the Social Security Administration may ask why and may require additional documentation.

What if I lost my card and do not remember my Social Security number?

You can look up your number through your my Social Security account if you have one, or by contacting your local Social Security office. Bring your state ID and proof of citizenship or immigration status. The office can verify your identity and provide your number.

Can someone else request a replacement card for me?

No. You must request the card yourself, whether online, by mail, or in person. If you are unable to do so due to age or disability, a parent, guardian, or authorized representative can explore on your behalf with proper documentation of their authority.