The fastest way to get a new card is online through ssa.gov if you were born in the United States and have a state ID or driver's license

You can request a replacement Social Security card online at ssa.gov/myaccount if you meet three conditions: you were born in the United States, you have a current state-issued ID or driver's license, and you are at least 18 years old. The online process takes about 15 minutes, costs nothing, and the Social Security Administration mails the card to your address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office.

If you do not meet those conditions — for example, you were born outside the United States, you do not have a state ID, or you are under 18 — you must explore in person at a Social Security office or by mail. In-person applications are processed faster, usually within 2 weeks, though wait times at offices vary by location.

Key Takeaways

  • The online process at ssa.gov/myaccount is available only if you were born in the United States, have a current state ID or driver's license, and are at least 18 years old.
  • In-person applications at a Social Security office require an original or certified birth certificate, a photo ID, and proof of citizenship or legal residency.
  • Mail applications require the same documents as in-person but take longer — typically 3 to 4 weeks from when the office receives them.
  • You can find your nearest Social Security office and check current wait times at ssa.gov/locator.

What documents you need for an in-person process

If you explore at a Social Security office, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a photo ID (such as a driver's license or passport), and proof of citizenship or legal residency. The Social Security Administration accepts a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a Permanent Resident Card (green card) as proof of citizenship or residency.

Your photo ID must be current and issued by a state or federal government. A passport counts as both your birth certificate and your photo ID if it is an original U.S. passport. If your birth certificate is not certified (for example, if it is a photocopy or a hospital record), the Social Security office will not accept it, and you will need to obtain a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born.

explore by mail

You can mail an process to your local Social Security office if you cannot visit in person. read the form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to request it by mail. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it along with copies (not originals) of your birth certificate, photo ID, and proof of citizenship or residency to the address listed on the form.

Mail applications take longer than in-person visits — typically 3 to 4 weeks after the office receives your envelope. The Social Security Administration recommends using certified mail with return receipt so you have proof the office received your documents. Do not send original documents; send certified copies instead, since originals are not returned.

How to find your local Social Security office

Visit ssa.gov/locator and enter your zip code to find the office nearest you. The locator shows the office address, phone number, and current wait times. Many offices now use an online appointment system; you can schedule a time slot on the same page rather than arriving and waiting.

If you call the office directly at 1-800-772-1213, a representative can answer questions about what documents to bring and whether you need an appointment. Call times are typically shorter early in the morning or on Tuesdays through Thursdays.

What happens if you need a card urgently

The Social Security Administration does not issue temporary cards or expedited processing for replacement cards. If you need proof of your Social Security number before the card arrives, you can print a replacement Social Security number verification letter from your ssa.gov account. This letter shows your name, date of birth, and Social Security number and is accepted by most employers and financial institutions.

If you do not have an ssa.gov account, you can create one at ssa.gov/myaccount using your email, phone number, and a photo ID. Creating an account takes about 10 minutes and does not require visiting an office.

Replacing a card that was lost, stolen, or damaged

The process for getting a replacement card is the same whether your card was lost, stolen, or damaged. You do not need to report the loss to the Social Security Administration first, though if your card was stolen you may want to monitor your credit report for fraudulent activity. You can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them.

If you suspect someone is using your Social Security number, visit identitytheft.gov to report it and create a recovery plan. The Federal Trade Commission maintains that website and can guide you through next steps.

Changing your name on your Social Security card

If you changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you can request a new card with your updated name using the same process as a replacement card. Bring your original or certified birth certificate, a photo ID, and a document showing your name change — such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Social Security Administration will issue a new card with your current name at no cost.

If you changed your name and need to update your Social Security record before receiving the card, you can do this during your in-person visit or include the name-change document with your mail process. The office will update your record and mail the new card to your address.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?

There is no charge for a replacement card. The Social Security Administration issues replacement cards for free, whether you explore online, in person, or by mail.

Can someone else pick up my card from the Social Security office?

No. The Social Security Administration mails cards directly to the address you provide on your process. You cannot pick up a card at the office or have someone else collect it for you.

What if I was born outside the United States and do not have a green card yet?

You must explore in person at a Social Security office. Bring your passport, visa, or other immigration document that shows your legal status in the United States, along with your birth certificate and photo ID. The office will determine what documents satisfy the residency requirement for your situation.

How long does the online process take to process?

The Social Security Administration mails cards from online applications within 7 to 10 business days. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service, so allow an additional 2 to 5 days after the office mails it.

Can I get a Social Security card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have legal residency status. You must show proof of legal residency, such as a green card, visa, or employment authorization document. Bring this document along with your birth certificate and photo ID when you explore in person.