You can order a replacement card online, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office
The fastest way to get a replacement Social Security card is through the Social Security Administration's online portal, which takes about 5 to 10 minutes and delivers the card to your address in 7 to 10 business days. If you cannot use the online system, you can mail an process or walk into a Social Security office in person — both routes take longer but work if you do not have a computer or internet access.
You will need to prove your identity and citizenship or legal residency status. The documents you bring depend on which method you choose, but all three routes are free. This guide walks you through each option so you can pick the one that fits your situation.
Key Takeaways
- The online system at ssa.gov/myaccount is the fastest route and takes 7 to 10 business days from start to delivery.
- You must prove your identity with a driver's license, passport, or state ID card, and prove citizenship or legal residency with a birth certificate or immigration document.
- If you cannot order online, you can mail Form SS-5 to your regional Social Security office or visit in person with the same documents.
- Replacement cards are free, and you do not need to be working or have a specific reason to order one.
- If your card was stolen or you suspect fraud, report it to Social Security and the three credit bureaus before ordering a replacement.
Ordering online through your Social Security account
Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and sign in or create an account. You will need an email address and a phone number. Social Security will send you a one-time code to verify your identity — this happens through text message or email, depending on what you choose.
Once you are logged in, select "Replacement Social Security Card" from the menu. Answer the questions about why you need a replacement (lost, stolen, name change, or damaged). The system will ask you to confirm your current address. If your address is wrong, update it before you submit — the card will be mailed to the address on file.
After you submit, you will see a confirmation number on the screen. Write it down or take a screenshot. Social Security will also email you a confirmation. The card typically arrives in 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during high-volume periods.
Mailing an process if you do not have online access
read or request Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov. You can print it at home, or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to request a form by mail — allow 7 to 10 days for it to arrive.
Fill out the form completely. Section 1 asks for your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Section 2 asks why you need a replacement. Section 3 asks for your mailing address. Sign and date the form in the spaces provided.
Gather your identity document (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and your citizenship or residency document (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or immigration papers). Make copies of both sides of each document. Mail the form and copies to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the address at ssa.gov/locator or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Allow 2 to 4 weeks for processing after Social Security receives your process.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator by entering your zip code. Call ahead to ask about wait times — many offices now require you to make an appointment online or by phone rather than walk in. Some offices have limited hours or are closed certain days.
Bring your original identity document (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and your original citizenship or residency document (birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or immigration papers). Do not bring copies — Social Security staff will examine the originals and return them to you. Bring your Social Security card if you still have it, though it is not required.
Tell the staff member you need a replacement card. They will fill out Form SS-5 with you or have you complete it. The card is usually mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you need it urgently, ask whether the office can issue a temporary card on the spot — not all offices do this, and it depends on your situation.
What documents prove your identity and citizenship
| Document Type | Acceptable for Identity | Acceptable for Citizenship or Residency |
|---|---|---|
| Driver's license or state ID card | Yes | No |
| U.S. passport | Yes | Yes |
| Birth certificate (certified copy) | No | Yes |
| Naturalization certificate | No | Yes |
| Permanent resident card (Green Card) | No | Yes |
| Employment Authorization Document (EAD) | No | Yes |
You need one document from the identity column and one from the citizenship or residency column. A U.S. passport counts for both, so if you have one, you only need to bring that. If your birth certificate does not say "certified copy" on it, it will not be accepted — you need the official version from the vital records office in the state where you were born, not a photocopy or hospital record.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your immigration documents. Social Security accepts permanent resident cards, employment authorization documents, and certain visa types. If you are unsure whether your document qualifies, call 1-800-772-1213 before you go to the office or mail your process.
What to do if your card was lost, stolen, or used fraudulently
If your card was stolen or you suspect someone is using your Social Security number, report it to Social Security first. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov/fraud. Social Security can flag your account and monitor it for suspicious activity.
Next, contact the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — and ask them to place a fraud alert on your credit report. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You only need to call one bureau; they will notify the other two. This is free and takes about 15 minutes.
Then order your replacement card using one of the three methods above. There is no rush to do this when ready after reporting fraud — the card itself is just a piece of paper, and the number on it is what matters. The important step is alerting Social Security and the credit bureaus so they can watch for misuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it really take to get a card in the mail?
The Social Security Administration says 7 to 10 business days for online orders, but this varies by region and time of year. During high-volume periods (January through March, after tax season), it can take up to two weeks. Mailed applications take 2 to 4 weeks from the time Social Security receives them, not from the time you mail them.
What if my name changed since I got my last card?
You can order a replacement with your new name through any of the three methods. You will need to provide proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the original or a certified copy. If you are ordering online, you may need to visit an office in person instead, since the system sometimes cannot process name changes automatically.
Can someone else pick up my card for me?
No. Social Security mails cards to the address on file and does not hold them for pickup. The card will arrive at your home address. If you need it sent somewhere else, update your address before you submit your process or form.
Do I need a Social Security card to work?
Your employer needs your Social Security number, but you do not technically need the physical card. You can provide the number verbally or write it on your I-9 form. That said, many employers and government offices ask to see the card itself, so it is useful to have one on hand.
What if I never received my card after two weeks?
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 with your confirmation number (if you ordered online) or your process receipt. They can check the status and remail the card if it was lost in transit. Do not assume it is lost until at least three weeks have passed.