You can get a new Social Security card by mail, in person at a Social Security office, or through a third-party agent in some states
The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues replacement cards when yours is lost, stolen, damaged, or when your name changes. You do not need to visit an office in person — most people can request a card by mail or online. If you do go in person, you will need to bring documents that prove your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. The process usually takes 1 to 2 weeks by mail, or same-day service at some offices if you go in person.
You are may have access to to up to three replacement cards per year and ten in your lifetime, though the SSA can deny requests if they suspect fraud. There is no fee for a Social Security card.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov, by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at your local Social Security office.
- The documents you bring must prove your identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID), your age (birth certificate), and your citizenship or legal immigration status.
- Online requests are fastest for people born in the United States who have a driver's license or state ID — you can track your card's arrival within days.
- If you go in person, bring originals or certified copies of your documents; photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted.
- You can authorize someone else to pick up your card, but that person must bring a signed statement from you and their own ID.
Requesting a card online through ssa.gov
The fastest route for most people is the online request at ssa.gov/myaccount. You must create or sign into your my Social Security account, which requires a Social Security number, date of birth, email address, and a U.S. mailing address. The SSA will verify your identity by asking questions about your credit history or by sending a one-time code to your phone or email.
Online requests work only if you were born in the United States and have a current driver's license or state ID. If you do not meet these requirements, you will need to use the mail or in-person route. After you submit your request online, the SSA sends a confirmation email and you can track your card's status in your account. Most cards arrive within 7 to 10 business days.
explore by mail using Form SS-5
You can request a card by mail using Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), available at ssa.gov or at any Social Security office. Fill out the form completely, sign and date it, and mail it with copies of your documents to the address listed on the form — this varies by state. The SSA recommends using certified mail with return receipt so you have proof of delivery.
You must include original documents or certified copies (not photocopies or notarized copies). Acceptable identity documents are a driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID. For age, bring your birth certificate. For citizenship or immigration status, bring your U.S. birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or immigration documents such as a green card or visa. Processing by mail takes 2 to 4 weeks.
If you are explore because your name changed — through marriage, divorce, or court order — include the document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. The SSA will not issue a card with a new name without this document.
explore in person at a Social Security office
You can walk into any Social Security office with your documents and request a replacement card. Bring your original documents or certified copies; the SSA does not accept photocopies or notarized versions. You will need to fill out Form SS-5 at the office or bring one you have already completed.
Bring your identity document (driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID), your birth certificate, and proof of citizenship or immigration status. If your name has changed, bring the document that shows the change. Some offices offer same-day service, though this varies by location and how busy the office is. Call ahead to your local office to ask whether same-day cards are available and whether you need an appointment.
You can find your nearest Social Security office at ssa.gov/locator. Enter your zip code and the site will show offices near you, their hours, and phone numbers. Many offices now require appointments; you can book one online or by phone.
What to do if someone else picks up your card
You can authorize another person to pick up your card on your behalf. That person must bring a signed, dated statement from you giving them permission, along with their own ID. The statement should include your name, Social Security number, and date of birth. You do not need to have it notarized.
If you are requesting the card by mail and want someone else to receive it, you can have the SSA mail it to that person's address instead of yours. Write a note with your request and include it with your process.
Documents you need: a complete checklist
| What you need | Acceptable documents | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Driver's license, passport, state ID, military ID, or tribal ID | Must be current or expired no more than 5 years ago. Originals or certified copies only. |
| Age | Birth certificate, passport, or baptism record | Must be an original or certified copy. A photocopy is not accepted. |
| Citizenship or immigration status | U.S. birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, green card, visa, employment authorization document (EAD), or I-94 arrival/departure record | Originals or certified copies. If you have a green card or visa, bring it along with your identity document. |
| Name change (if applicable) | Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order | Required if your name is different from the one on your current or most recent card. Originals or certified copies. |
What happens after you submit your request
If you applied online, you will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. You can log into your my Social Security account to check the status of your card. The SSA will mail your card to the address you provided.
If you applied by mail, the SSA will contact you only if there is a problem with your process — such as missing documents or unclear information. If you do not hear from them within 4 weeks, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and provide your reference number or Social Security number.
If you applied in person, you may receive your card the same day or within 1 to 2 weeks, depending on the office. Ask the staff member when to expect it and whether you will be notified by mail or phone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Social Security card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid visa or immigration status that allows you to work in the United States. You will need to bring your immigration documents (green card, visa, employment authorization document, or I-94 record) along with your identity and age documents. Bring originals or certified copies only.
What if my documents are from another country?
Foreign documents must be certified copies or originals. If your birth certificate or other document is in another language, you may need to bring an English translation certified by a translator. Call your local Social Security office before you visit to ask what they will accept.
How long does it take to get a card if I explore in person?
Some Social Security offices issue cards the same day you explore. Others mail them within 1 to 2 weeks. Call your local office before you go to ask whether same-day service is available and whether you need an appointment.
What if my card arrives damaged or with an error?
Contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 and report the problem. You can request a replacement card at no charge. If the error is the SSA's mistake, they will issue a new card right away.
Do I need to notify anyone else when I get a new Social Security card?
You should update your employer, bank, and any other organization that has your Social Security number on file. Your new card has the same number as your old one, so the number itself does not change — only the card is replaced.