How to Get a Replacement Social Security Card

You can get a replacement Social Security card by mail, in person, or online depending on your state

The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues replacement cards at no cost through three routes: online at ssa.gov (available in most states), by mail through Form SS-5, or in person at your local Social Security office. Which route you use depends on whether your state participates in the online service, whether you have a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, and how quickly you need the card. The entire process typically takes 7 to 10 business days if you go online or by mail, or the same length of time if you request it in person, since the SSA mails all cards rather than issuing them on the spot.

All three routes require you to prove your identity, citizenship, and age with original or certified documents. A photocopy from your home printer will not be accepted. The SSA will mail your new card to the address on file, so update your address before you request the card if you have moved recently.

Key Takeaways

The online replacement service at ssa.gov is the fastest option in participating states and requires a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID.
If your state does not offer online replacement or you do not have the required ID, you can mail Form SS-5 to your local Social Security office with supporting documents.
You must prove your identity, citizenship, and age with original or certified documents — a photocopy alone will not be accepted.
You can request a replacement card in person at any Social Security office, though you may wait several hours without an appointment.
The SSA will mail your new card to the address on file, so update your address before you request the card if you have moved.

Ordering online through ssa.gov

The fastest route in most states is the online replacement service at ssa.gov. You will need a Real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID (one that meets federal standards for air travel and federal building access). You will also need to verify your identity through ID.me, a third-party identity verification service that the SSA uses. The process takes about 15 minutes and you can complete it from home.

Not all states participate in the online service yet. Check the SSA website to see if your state is included. If it is, you will create an account, answer security questions, upload a photo of your ID, and confirm your mailing address. The SSA will mail your replacement card to that address within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to print anything or visit an office.

Mailing Form SS-5 to your local office

If your state does not offer online replacement or you do not have a Real ID-compliant ID, you can request a replacement card by mail. read or request Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and gather the documents you need to prove your identity, citizenship, and age.

Mail the completed form and your documents to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number so the office can contact you if there are questions. The SSA will review your documents, and if everything is in order, they will mail your replacement card within 7 to 10 business days. Do not send original documents — send certified copies or documents you can afford to lose, because the SSA does not return them.

Documents you need to prove identity, citizenship, and age

The SSA requires you to submit original documents or certified copies. A photocopy from your home printer will not be accepted. For identity, you can use a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. For citizenship, you can use a U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card. For age, a birth certificate, passport, or military discharge papers work.

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. That process takes 1 to 3 weeks depending on the state. If you are not a U.S. citizen but have a valid visa or work permit, bring that document along with your passport. The SSA will tell you if your documents are not acceptable before they process your request — if you are unsure, call 1-800-772-1213 to ask.

Requesting a replacement card in person

You can walk into any Social Security office and request a replacement card without an appointment. Bring the same documents you would mail: proof of identity, citizenship, and age. You will fill out Form SS-5 at the office, show your documents to a representative, and they will submit your request on the spot. The office will mail your new card to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

Wait times at Social Security offices vary widely. Some offices have waits of 30 minutes to an hour; others can be 2 to 3 hours, especially on Mondays and Fridays. You can check the wait time at your local office on ssa.gov before you go. Some offices now offer appointments through their website, which can cut your wait time significantly. If you book an appointment, you will still need to bring all your documents.

What to do if you have lost your documents

If you do not have an original birth certificate or passport, you will need to order one before you can get a replacement Social Security card. Contact the vital records office in the state or county where you were born to request a certified copy of your birth certificate. You can usually do this by mail or online, though some states require you to visit in person. The cost ranges from $10 to $30 depending on the state, and processing takes 1 to 3 weeks.

If you are a naturalized citizen and do not have your naturalization certificate, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request a replacement. If you are a permanent resident and have lost your green card, you will need to replace that first before you can get a Social Security card. The SSA cannot issue a replacement card without proof of citizenship or immigration status.

Updating your address before you request the card

The SSA will mail your replacement card to the address currently on file with them. If you have moved recently, update your address before you request the card so it does not go to an old address. You can update your address online at ssa.gov if you have a my Social Security account, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a Social Security office in person. If you update your address online, the change takes effect when ready. If you call or visit an office, it may take a few days.

If your replacement card was mailed to an old address and you did not receive it, contact the Social Security office that processed your request. They can reissue the card and mail it to your current address. Have your current address ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement Social Security card?

Online and mail requests typically take 7 to 10 business days from the time the SSA receives your complete process. In-person requests at a Social Security office also take 7 to 10 business days for mailing, though you submit the request when ready. If documents are missing or incomplete, the process can take longer.

Can I get a replacement card the same day?

No. The SSA does not issue cards on the spot. Even when you request a replacement in person at an office, they mail the card to you, which takes 7 to 10 business days. There is no expedited or rush option.

What if my name has changed since my last card?

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you will need to submit a certified copy of the document that shows the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your other identity documents. The SSA will issue a new card with your current legal name.

Do I need to bring my old Social Security card when I request a replacement?

No. You do not need your old card. The SSA can look up your account using your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. If your old card was lost or stolen, you do not need to report it separately — just request a replacement.

Can someone else request a replacement card on my behalf?

Generally, no. You must request the card yourself and provide your own identity documents. The only exception is for minors or people unable to manage their own affairs, in which case a parent, guardian, or legal representative can request the card with proper documentation of their authority.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.