Where to start: the Social Security Administration office or online
You can request a replacement Social Security card in three ways: online through the Social Security Administration website, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online method is fastest if you have a state-issued ID and a mailing address on file with Social Security. If you do not meet those requirements, you will need to visit an office or mail in your request.
The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for a replacement card. If you see a website or service charging money to get you a Social Security card, that is not an official government service.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a replacement card online if you have a state-issued ID, are at least 18 years old, and have a mailing address on file with Social Security.
- The online process takes about 10 business days from the time Social Security receives your request, and the card arrives by mail.
- If you cannot use the online method, you can visit a Social Security office in person with your birth certificate, state ID, and proof of citizenship or legal residency.
- Replacement cards are free; any website charging a fee is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration.
- You will need your Social Security number to start any request, so have your current card, a tax return, or a bank statement handy.
Requesting online: what you need and how long it takes
To request a card online, visit ssa.gov and look for the "Request a Replacement Social Security Card" option. You will need to create or sign into your my Social Security account. The system will ask you to verify your identity using information from your state ID and your Social Security record.
The online request works only if you are at least 18 years old, have a valid state-issued driver's license or ID card, and have a mailing address currently on file with Social Security. If your address has changed recently, update it before you start the online request. The card will be mailed to the address Social Security has for you.
After you submit your request online, Social Security typically processes it within 10 business days. The card itself arrives by mail within one to two weeks after that. You do not need to visit an office or provide original documents if you use the online method.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
If you cannot use the online method, you can go to your local Social Security office. Find the nearest office by visiting ssa.gov/locator or calling 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online scheduling system. Check your local office's website to see if you should schedule ahead.
Bring your birth certificate, a state-issued ID, and proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful resident. Proof of citizenship can be a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. If you are not a citizen, bring your green card, work permit, or visa. You will also need to fill out Form SS-5, which you can read from ssa.gov before you go or fill out at the office.
Processing time at the office is usually the same as online: 10 business days or so. The card arrives by mail after that. Some offices offer expedited service if you need the card urgently, but this is not standard at all locations. Ask when you arrive whether expedited processing is available.
Requesting by mail
You can mail your request to your local Social Security office. read and print Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out completely, and include copies of your birth certificate, state ID, and proof of citizenship or legal residency. Do not send original documents — Social Security will not return them.
Mail your packet to the address listed on the form for your state. Processing takes longer by mail than in person or online: typically three to four weeks for Social Security to receive and process your request, plus one to two weeks for the card to arrive. If you are in a hurry, the online or in-person method is faster.
What to do if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged
If your card is lost or stolen, report it to Social Security as soon as you notice. You do not need to report it to the police unless you suspect identity theft. When you request a replacement, tell Social Security whether the card was lost, stolen, or damaged. This helps them flag your account.
If you suspect someone has used your Social Security number fraudulently, visit IdentityTheft.gov to report it and create a recovery plan. You can also call the Social Security Administration's fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271. Getting a new card does not change your number, so reporting the fraud is the important step.
Name changes and other reasons for a new card
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, you will need a new card. The process is the same: online, by mail, or in person. You will need to provide a document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Social Security does not issue a new card if your number is correct and your name is already updated in their system. If you have recently changed your name with Social Security but have not received a new card yet, contact your local office to check the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
Online and in-person requests typically take 10 business days for Social Security to process, then one to two weeks for the card to arrive by mail. Mail requests take longer: three to four weeks for processing, plus delivery time. Expedited service may be available at some offices if you need the card urgently.
Can I get a temporary card while I wait?
Social Security does not issue temporary cards. If you need proof of your Social Security number right away, you can print a benefit verification letter from your my Social Security account, or call 1-800-772-1213 to request one by mail. Some employers and banks will accept this as proof while you wait for the physical card.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You will need to get a birth certificate from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. Contact that office directly — Social Security cannot obtain it for you. Once you have it, you can use it to request your replacement card in person or by mail.
Do I need to bring anything if I request a card online?
No. The online process uses information from your state ID and Social Security's records to verify your identity. You do not need to provide or mail any documents. The card will be sent to your mailing address on file.
What if my address is wrong in Social Security's system?
Update your address before you request a replacement card. If you use the online method, you can update your address in your my Social Security account. If you visit an office or mail your request, include a document showing your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.