You can retrieve your Social Security number through your Social Security account or by contacting the Social Security Administration directly
Your Social Security number is stored in the Social Security Administration's records, and you have several ways to look it up without visiting an office in person. The fastest route is creating a my Social Security account at ssa.gov, which shows your number once you log in. If you do not want to create an account, you can call the Social Security Administration's main line or request a replacement card by mail.
The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the number and whether you have the documents required to verify your identity online. Most people find their number through their online account within minutes, but phone and mail routes take longer.
Key Takeaways
- Creating a my Social Security account at ssa.gov is the fastest way to view your number online, and you can do it from home using your computer or phone.
- You will need to verify your identity to create an account, which typically requires a Social Security number, date of birth, email address, and a phone number.
- If you cannot create an account online, you can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request your number over the phone.
- A replacement Social Security card mailed to your address is another option, though it takes one to two weeks to arrive.
- Your Social Security number also appears on tax documents, bank statements, and previous employer records if you need it urgently.
Creating a my Social Security account to view your number
Go to ssa.gov and select "Create an account" under the my Social Security section. You will be asked to enter your Social Security number, date of birth, email address, and phone number. The site will then send a verification code to your email or phone — enter that code to confirm your identity.
Once your account is set up, log in and look for the "My Information" or "Account Summary" section. Your full Social Security number will be displayed there. You can screenshot it, write it down, or print the page. Your account also shows your earnings record and benefit information if you need those details.
If the online verification fails — for example, if the system cannot match your information to Social Security's records — you will be offered the option to verify by phone or mail instead. This usually means calling 1-800-772-1213 to complete the process.
Calling the Social Security Administration to request your number
Call 1-800-772-1213 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. in your local time zone). Have your date of birth, mother's maiden name, and current address ready. The representative will ask you these details to confirm your identity before providing your Social Security number.
Wait times are often long, especially early in the week and early in the day. Calling on a Thursday or Friday afternoon typically means shorter hold times. The representative will read your number to you over the phone, so have paper ready to write it down, or ask them to repeat it.
Ordering a replacement Social Security card by mail
You can request a replacement card through ssa.gov without creating an account. Go to the "Replace Your Social Security Card" section and follow the prompts to order a card by mail. You will need to upload or mail copies of documents proving your identity, citizenship, and age — typically a driver's license or passport, a birth certificate, and proof of your current address.
The card takes one to two weeks to arrive after the Social Security Administration receives and processes your request. Your Social Security number will be printed on the card when it arrives. This method works well if you need a physical card for employment or banking purposes, but it is slower than the online account or phone methods if you only need the number itself.
Finding your number on existing documents
If you need your Social Security number right now and cannot wait for online verification or a phone call, check documents you already have. Your number appears on tax forms (W-2s, 1099s, tax returns), bank statements, mortgage documents, and previous pay stubs. If you have filed taxes, your number is on your tax return or the IRS notice of assessment.
Employers also keep your Social Security number on file. If you are currently employed or recently left a job, you can contact your HR or payroll department and ask them to confirm your number. This is a legitimate request — your employer already has this information.
What to do if you cannot verify your identity online
The my Social Security account system uses third-party verification services to confirm your identity. If verification fails, it usually means the information you entered does not match what Social Security has on record — for example, a name spelling difference, a recent address change, or an error in your birth date.
When this happens, the website will offer you the option to verify by phone or by mail. Choose the phone option if you need your number quickly. A representative can often resolve minor mismatches on the spot. If you choose mail verification, Social Security will send you a form to sign and return with copies of your documents.
If you have recently moved, changed your name, or corrected your birth date with Social Security, wait a few days before trying to create your account again. The system sometimes needs time to update its records.
Keeping your Social Security number find after you find it
Once you have your number, store it safely. Write it down and keep the paper in a find place at home — a locked drawer, safe, or filing cabinet. Do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet or purse unless you absolutely need it that day. Do not photograph it or email it to yourself.
Be cautious about who you give your number to. Legitimate businesses (banks, employers, healthcare providers) need it, but many organizations ask for it out of habit rather than necessity. You can ask why they need it and whether they can use a different identifier instead. Never share your number in response to an unsolicited phone call, email, or text message, even if the sender claims to be from Social Security.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my Social Security number to create a my Social Security account?
Yes, you will need to enter your Social Security number as part of the account setup process. This creates a catch-22 if you have lost your number entirely. In that case, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local Social Security office in person with a photo ID and proof of citizenship to get your number first.
How long does it take to create a my Social Security account?
The account creation and identity verification usually take 5 to 15 minutes if everything matches Social Security's records. Once your account is active, you can view your number when ready. If verification fails and you choose the phone option, you may wait on hold for 30 minutes to an hour.
Can I view my Social Security number on my tax return if I filed online?
Yes. If you filed your taxes electronically, log into your IRS account at irs.gov or check your email for a copy of your return. Your Social Security number appears on the first page of your tax return. You can also request a transcript from the IRS that includes your number.
What if Social Security says they have no record of my number?
This is rare but can happen if there is a spelling error in your name, a wrong birth date in their system, or if you have never been assigned a number. Visit a local Social Security office with your birth certificate, passport, and proof of citizenship. A representative can search their records and issue you a number if needed.
Is it safe to view my Social Security number on a public computer?
It is safer to use your own device at home. If you must use a public computer, make sure you are on the official ssa.gov website (check the address bar), log out completely when you are done, and do not save your password. Do not use a public Wi-Fi network without a VPN if possible, as these networks are less find.