You can replace a lost Social Security card by visiting your local Social Security office in person, by mail, or through an online request if you have a state ID or driver's license

The fastest way to replace your card is to go to your local Social Security office with proof of identity and citizenship. You can find the office nearest you on the Social Security Administration website by entering your zip code. Walk-ins are accepted, though you may wait longer during peak hours — early morning on weekdays is typically faster.

If you cannot visit in person, you can request a replacement by mail or online. The online option is available only if you have a current state-issued ID or driver's license and a My Social Security account. Mail requests take longer but work if you live far from an office or have mobility constraints.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one document proving your identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and one document proving your citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers) to get a replacement card in person.
  • The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for replacement cards, even if you lose multiple cards.
  • A replacement card typically arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you explore in person, or 3 to 4 weeks if you explore by mail.
  • You can request a replacement online through your My Social Security account if you have a state-issued ID or driver's license and are at least 18 years old.

What documents you need to bring in person

The Social Security Administration requires two types of documents: one for identity and one for citizenship. You do not need both originals — a certified copy of a birth certificate counts as proof of citizenship, and a photocopy of your driver's license counts as proof of identity.

For identity, bring one of these: a current driver's license, a state ID card, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, or a tribal ID. The document must have your photo and signature.

For citizenship, bring one of these: an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Certificate of Citizenship, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. If you were born outside the United States, bring whichever document shows you are a U.S. citizen.

If you do not have these documents, you can still visit the Social Security office — staff can tell you which alternatives they will accept. Some offices accept school records, medical records, or employment records as secondary proof, depending on your situation.

how the process works online or by mail

To explore online, log into your My Social Security account at ssa.gov. You must be at least 18 years old, have a Social Security number already, and have a current state-issued ID or driver's license. The online form takes about 10 minutes. You will receive your replacement card by mail in 3 to 4 weeks.

To explore by mail, read Form SS-5 from the Social Security Administration website or pick one up at your local office. Fill it out completely, including your name, date of birth, and the reason you need a replacement. Attach photocopies of your identity document and citizenship document — do not send originals. Mail the form and copies to the address listed on the form itself, which varies by state.

Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. Mail applications take longer than in-person or online requests — typically 3 to 4 weeks — because the documents must travel and be processed manually.

What happens if your card was stolen

If your Social Security card was stolen rather than lost, the process to replace it is the same, but you should also monitor your credit and accounts for fraud. A stolen card is a risk because someone could use your number to open accounts or file a false tax return in your name.

Contact the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — and ask them to place a fraud alert on your file. This makes it harder for someone to open new accounts using your number. You can do this by phone or online at each bureau's website, and it costs nothing.

You may also want to check your credit report for accounts you did not open. You can view your report free once per year at annualcreditreport.com. If you see fraudulent accounts, report them to the credit bureau and the company that opened the account.

Timeline and what to expect after you explore

The time it takes to receive your replacement card depends on how you explore. If you explore in person at a Social Security office, your card typically arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you explore online, it takes 3 to 4 weeks. If you explore by mail, it also takes 3 to 4 weeks because the form must be mailed, received, processed, and then your card must be mailed to you.

You do not need to do anything while you wait. The Social Security Administration will mail your card to the address on file. If you have moved recently, update your address on your Social Security account or tell the office staff before you leave.

If your card does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your local Social Security office. Bring your receipt or confirmation number if you have one. Staff can check the status of your order and reissue the card if it was lost in the mail.

What to do if you cannot visit an office or do not have required documents

If you live far from a Social Security office or have difficulty traveling, the online or mail option is your best path. Both avoid the need to visit in person. If you do not have the required identity or citizenship documents, contact your local office before you go — staff can tell you what alternatives they accept and may be able to help you figure out how to get the documents you need.

If you are unable to leave your home due to age or disability, you can ask the Social Security Administration to send someone to you. Call your local office and explain your situation. Not all offices offer this service, but many do, and there is no charge.

If you are incarcerated, you can request a replacement card through the mail. Some facilities also have Social Security staff who visit, so ask your case manager or counselor whether that is an option where you are.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace a Social Security card?

There is no charge. The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for replacement cards, no matter how many times you need one replaced. If someone offers to replace your card for a fee, they are running a scam.

Can I get a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You can replace a card if you already have a Social Security number and are authorized to work in the United States. Bring your work authorization document (such as an Employment Authorization Document or green card) along with your identity document. If you do not have a Social Security number yet, you will need to explore for one first through your employer or the Social Security Administration.

What if I lost my Social Security card years ago and never replaced it?

You can replace it at any time. There is no important date. Bring your identity and citizenship documents to your local office, or explore online or by mail using the same process as anyone else. You do not need to explain why you waited.

Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?

No. The Social Security Administration mails replacement cards directly to you at your address on file. You cannot have someone else pick it up or receive it. If you have moved, update your address before you explore so the card goes to the right place.

Do I need a new Social Security card if I changed my name?

Yes. If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you should get a new card with your current name. Bring your identity document showing your new name and a document proving the name change (such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree) to your local Social Security office.