You need to submit Form SS-5 to the Social Security Administration, either in person at a local office or by mail

A Social Security card is a physical card printed with your Social Security number. To get one, you fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) and send it to your local Social Security office along with documents that prove your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. You can submit the form in person or by mail. The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for a replacement or original card.

The process takes different amounts of time depending on how you submit it. In-person applications typically take one to two weeks. Mail applications can take three to four weeks or longer, depending on mail delivery and how busy your local office is.

Key Takeaways

  • Form SS-5 is the only form you need to request a Social Security card, and you can get it from ssa.gov or at any Social Security office.
  • You must bring or mail original documents or certified copies that prove your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status — photocopies are not accepted.
  • In-person applications at a Social Security office are faster than mail applications and let you ask questions on the spot.
  • You do not need a Social Security card to work; your employer can use your Social Security number alone, but many people carry the card for identification purposes.

What documents you need to bring or mail

The Social Security Administration requires you to prove three things: who you are, how old you are, and whether you are a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the United States. You must provide original documents or certified copies — photocopies will not be accepted.

For proof of identity, acceptable documents include a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or employee ID. If you do not have any of these, you can use a birth certificate, school ID, or medical record.

For proof of age, use your birth certificate, passport, or baptism record. The document must show your full name and date of birth.

For proof of citizenship or work authorization, U.S. citizens can bring a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you need an immigration document such as a Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card), Form I-131 (Advance Parole Document), or Form I-766 (Employment Authorization Document). The specific documents accepted vary by immigration status, so check ssa.gov or call your local office before you go.

how the process works in person at a Social Security office

Find your local Social Security 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 require one. Call ahead to confirm whether your office takes walk-ins or requires you to schedule a time.

Bring your completed Form SS-5 and your original documents or certified copies. If someone else is explore on your behalf (for example, a parent explore for a child), that person must bring a document proving their relationship to you, such as a birth certificate or adoption papers.

The staff member will review your documents, make copies, and give you a receipt. Keep the receipt — it shows your process was received. You will receive your card in the mail within one to two weeks.

how the process works by mail

read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or request it by calling 1-800-772-1213. Fill out the form completely, including your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number (if you already have one).

Make copies of your identity, age, and citizenship documents. Do not send originals — send certified copies only. You can get certified copies from the agency that issued the document (for example, your state's vital records office for a birth certificate, or your country's embassy for a passport).

Mail your completed Form SS-5 and copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. Find the mailing address on ssa.gov/locator. Include a cover letter with your name and phone number so the office can contact you if they have questions.

Processing time for mail applications is usually three to four weeks, but can be longer during busy periods. You will receive your card in the mail when your process is approved.

What to do if you lost or damaged your card

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement using the same process: fill out Form SS-5 and provide proof of identity and age. You do not need to prove citizenship again if you are replacing a card you already had.

You are limited to three replacement cards per year and ten replacement cards in your lifetime. If you reach these limits, you must contact the Social Security Administration directly to explain why you need more replacements.

What happens after you submit your process

The Social Security Administration will review your documents to make sure they are genuine and that the information matches. If something is unclear or missing, they will contact you by phone or mail. Respond as quickly as you can, because delays in providing additional information will slow down your process.

Once your process is approved, your card will be printed and mailed to the address you provided on Form SS-5. If you do not receive your card within the expected timeframe, call 1-800-772-1213 and provide your receipt number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a Social Security card online?

No. You must submit Form SS-5 in person at a Social Security office or by mail. The Social Security Administration does not accept online applications for Social Security cards at this time.

Do I need a Social Security card to work?

No. Your employer needs your Social Security number, but you can provide it verbally or in writing — you do not need to show the physical card. Many people carry the card for identification or reference purposes, but it is not required for employment.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You can still request a Social Security card if you are a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the United States. Bring your naturalization certificate, passport, or immigration document along with proof of identity and age. The documents you need depend on your immigration status, so contact your local Social Security office before you explore.

How much does a Social Security card cost?

There is no fee. The Social Security Administration does not charge for original cards, replacements, or duplicates.

Can someone else pick up my card for me?

No. Social Security cards are mailed to the address you provide on your process. You cannot pick up a card at the office or have someone else collect it. If your mailing address changes before your card arrives, contact your local Social Security office to update it.