You cannot request a Social Security card entirely online, but you can start the process from home
The Social Security Administration does not offer a fully online process for a new or replacement card. However, you can begin the request through their website, ssa.gov, by creating a my Social Security account and filling out the initial form. After that, you will need to visit a Social Security office in person to verify your identity and submit supporting documents.
The in-person step is required because the SSA must confirm who you are before issuing an official card. This protects against fraud and ensures the card goes to the right person. The full process typically takes two to four weeks from the time you submit everything at the office.
Key Takeaways
- You can start a replacement card request on ssa.gov by logging into or creating a my Social Security account, but you must finish the process in person at a Social Security office.
- You will need to bring a photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal status to the office, along with your completed process.
- If you cannot visit an office, you can mail Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) directly to your local Social Security office instead.
- Replacement cards usually arrive within two to four weeks after you submit your documents at the office.
- You cannot request a card for someone else online; the person named on the card must request it themselves or have a legal representative do so.
Starting your request on ssa.gov
Go to ssa.gov and look for the "my Social Security" section. If you do not already have an account, you will create one using your email address and a password. The SSA will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history or other personal details.
Once you are logged in, select the option to request a replacement card. You will fill out basic information: your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and the reason you need a new card (lost, stolen, or name change, for example). The form will also ask about your citizenship status and whether you have a Social Security number already.
After you submit this online form, the SSA will give you a confirmation number and instructions for the next step. Save this confirmation number — you will need it when you go to the office.
What you need to bring to the Social Security office
The SSA requires original documents or certified copies. You will need one photo ID (a driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and one document proving citizenship or legal status. Acceptable citizenship documents include a U.S. birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need your immigration documents, such as a green card or visa.
Bring your confirmation number from your online request, or bring Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) if you did not start online. You can read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov. Do not sign the form until you are at the office — the SSA requires your signature in front of a staff member.
If you do not have an original document, you can bring a certified copy. A certified copy is stamped and signed by the government office that issued the original. Photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted.
Finding your local Social Security office and making an appointment
Use the office locator on ssa.gov to find the Social Security office nearest you. Enter your city or zip code, and the website will show you the address, phone number, and hours. Many offices now require appointments rather than walk-ins, so call ahead or check the office's page on ssa.gov to see if you need to schedule.
If you call to make an appointment, have your confirmation number ready. Tell the staff member you are requesting a replacement card and ask what documents to bring. Some offices have specific requirements or accept appointments only on certain days.
Wait times at Social Security offices vary widely. Some offices have appointments available within a few days; others may have a wait of several weeks. If you cannot get an appointment soon, the mail option (described below) may be faster.
Mailing your request instead of visiting an office
If you cannot visit an office or prefer not to, you can mail Form SS-5 directly to your local Social Security office. read the form from ssa.gov, fill it out completely, and sign it. Include copies (not originals) of your photo ID and citizenship document. Do not mail original documents — the SSA will not return them.
Find your local office's mailing address on ssa.gov using the office locator. Mail your packet using a method that provides tracking, such as certified mail or a carrier that offers delivery confirmation. Keep a copy of everything you send.
Processing by mail usually takes three to five weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods. You will receive your new card by mail once it is ready.
What happens after you submit your documents
After the Social Security office receives your completed process and documents, they will review everything to make sure it is correct. If something is missing or unclear, they may contact you by phone or mail to ask for more information. This can add time to the process.
Once the SSA approves your request, they will print your new card and mail it to the address you provided. You do not need to do anything else — just wait for it to arrive. The card will come in a regular envelope, not a special package.
If you do not receive your card within four weeks of submitting your documents, contact your local Social Security office to check the status. Have your confirmation number or process date ready.
Replacing a card that was lost or stolen
If your card was lost or stolen, tell the Social Security office when you submit your process. You may also want to report the loss to other agencies: if someone has your Social Security number, they could use it to open accounts or commit fraud in your name.
Contact the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov to report identity theft and create a recovery plan. You can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to make it harder for someone to open new accounts using your number.
The SSA will issue you a new card with the same number. You do not get a new Social Security number unless you have a very specific reason, such as ongoing identity theft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Social Security card the same day I explore?
No. Even if you explore in person at an office, the card is printed and mailed to you after your process is approved. The entire process takes two to four weeks. Some offices do not issue cards on-site.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use other citizenship documents instead, such as a passport, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth. If you do not have any of these, contact your local Social Security office to ask what alternatives they accept.
Can I request a card for my child online?
No. A parent or legal guardian must request the card in person at a Social Security office. Bring the child's birth certificate, proof of the parent's identity, and proof of the parent-child relationship (such as a birth certificate showing both names).
What if my name has changed?
You can request a new card with your updated name. Bring legal proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will issue a card with your new name and the same Social Security number.
How do I check if my card is on the way?
Call your local Social Security office or log into your my Social Security account on ssa.gov. Have your confirmation number or process date ready. The office can tell you whether your process is still being processed or has been approved.