What you need to do to replace your Social Security card

You can replace a Social Security card by visiting your local Social Security office in person, by mail, or through an online request if you meet certain conditions. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will issue you a new card with the same nine-digit number at no cost. The process typically takes one to two weeks if you explore in person, or two to four weeks by mail.

You do not need an appointment at most Social Security offices, though some locations now use an online scheduling system. Bring your original documents with you — the SSA will not accept copies or photos. If you are explore by mail, you will need to send certified copies of your documents, which you can obtain from the agency that issued them (your state's vital records office for a birth certificate, for example).

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace your card in person at a Social Security office, by mail, or online if you have a my Social Security account and a state-issued ID.
  • Bring your original birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and a photo ID — the SSA will not accept copies unless you are mailing your request.
  • In-person replacement usually takes one to two weeks; mail requests take two to four weeks.
  • You receive the new card at no cost, and it will have the same nine-digit number as your original card.
  • If you have changed your name, bring legal proof of the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Documents you must bring or send

The SSA requires three types of documents: proof of citizenship or legal residency, proof of your identity, and proof of your current legal name. For U.S. citizens, an original or certified birth certificate counts as proof of citizenship. If you were born outside the United States, you will need a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship instead.

For proof of identity, bring a current, valid photo ID issued by a state or the federal government — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card all work. If you do not have a photo ID, the SSA will accept other documents such as a school ID, employee ID, or medical record, though the rules vary by office. Call your local Social Security office before you visit to confirm what they will accept.

If your name has changed since your original card was issued, bring the legal document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will not replace your card based on a name change alone — you must also bring the three standard documents listed above.

Replacing your card in person at a Social Security office

Walk into your local Social Security office during business hours with your original documents. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though hours vary by location. You can find your nearest office and check its hours on the SSA website by entering your zip code.

Some Social Security offices now require you to schedule an appointment online through the SSA website. Check your local office's page before you go — if appointments are required, you can book one up to two weeks in advance. If your office does not use online scheduling, arrive early if you want to avoid a long wait, especially on Tuesdays through Thursdays.

When you arrive, bring all three types of documents in their original form. The SSA staff will review your documents, take your information, and give you a receipt. Your new card will be mailed to the address on file within one to two weeks. If you need to update your address, tell the staff member before you leave.

Replacing your card by mail

You can request a replacement card by mail if you cannot visit an office in person. read the process for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) from the SSA website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with certified copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. You can find the mailing address for your office on the SSA website.

Certified copies are official copies issued by the government agency that created the original document — your state's vital records office for a birth certificate, for example. You cannot send photocopies or notarized copies; they must be certified originals. Request certified copies directly from the issuing agency, which usually takes one to two weeks and costs a small fee (typically $10 to $25, depending on the state).

Mail your completed Form SS-5 and certified documents together in one envelope. Do not send original documents by mail — always send certified copies. Your new card will arrive by mail within two to four weeks of the SSA receiving your request. If you do not hear back within that time, contact your local Social Security office to check the status.

Replacing your card online through my Social Security

If you have a my Social Security account and a state-issued ID, you may be able to request a replacement card online without visiting an office or mailing documents. Not all states participate in this program yet, and may be able to access rules vary. Visit the SSA website and log into your my Social Security account to see if you can request a replacement online.

To use this option, you will need to verify your identity using your state ID and answer security questions. The SSA will confirm your information and mail your new card to the address on file. This method typically takes one to two weeks. If the online option is not available in your state or you do not have a my Social Security account, you can create one on the SSA website — it takes about 10 minutes and requires an email address and phone number.

What to do if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged

If your card is lost or stolen, replace it as soon as you notice it is missing. A lost card can be used by someone else to commit identity theft or fraud. You do not need to report it to the SSA separately — straightforward request a replacement using one of the three methods above. The SSA will issue a new card with the same nine-digit number.

If your card is damaged but still readable, you can still replace it. Bring the damaged card along with your documents when you visit an office in person, or include it with your mailed request. The SSA will destroy the old card and issue a new one.

If you suspect your Social Security number has been misused, contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338. The FTC can help you create a recovery plan and may recommend placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the credit bureaus.

How long the process takes and what happens next

In-person requests at a Social Security office usually result in a new card arriving within one to two weeks. Mail requests take two to four weeks from the time the SSA receives your documents. Online requests through my Social Security also take one to two weeks. These timelines assume the SSA does not need to contact you for missing or unclear information.

The SSA will mail your new card to the address on file in your Social Security record. If you have moved recently, update your address at the office before you leave, or update it in your my Social Security account if you are requesting online. If you do not receive your card within the expected timeframe, contact your local Social Security office — they can check the status and reissue the card if needed.

Once you receive your new card, sign the back of it in blue or black ink when ready. Do not write anything else on the card. Keep it in a safe place and do not carry it in your wallet every day — you only need it when you are opening a bank account, starting a new job, or explore for benefits. The more you carry it, the greater the risk of loss or theft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement card the same day I visit the office?

No. The SSA does not issue cards on the spot. You will receive a receipt when you explore in person, and your new card will be mailed to you within one to two weeks. If you need proof that you have applied, you can use the receipt as temporary documentation.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

If you were born in the United States but do not have a birth certificate, you can request one from your state's vital records office. If you were born outside the U.S., bring a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship instead. Contact your local Social Security office if you are unsure which documents will work for your situation.

Do I need to bring my old card if it is lost?

No. If your card is lost, you do not need to bring it. straightforward request a replacement and bring your other required documents. If you still have your old card because it is damaged, bring it along — the SSA will destroy it.

Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?

No. The SSA mails replacement cards directly to the address on file in your Social Security record. You cannot have someone else pick it up at the office. If you need to change the mailing address, update it before you leave the office or in your my Social Security account.

What if I changed my name but do not have a marriage certificate?

If you changed your name through marriage but do not have the original marriage certificate, you can request a certified copy from the county clerk's office where you were married. If you changed your name through a court order, bring a certified copy of the court order. Contact your local Social Security office if you have questions about which document to bring.