Where to order your card and what you'll need

You can order a Social Security card through the Social Security Administration (SSA) in three ways: online at ssa.gov, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online option is the fastest if you meet the requirements — you'll need a My Social Security account, a valid state-issued ID, and a U.S. mailing address. If you don't meet those requirements or prefer not to use the online system, you can mail an process or visit an office.

The SSA does not charge a fee for your first card or for replacements due to loss, theft, or damage. If you need a card with a name change — such as after marriage or legal name change — you'll also pay nothing. You will need to prove your identity and citizenship or lawful immigration status, which means bringing specific documents to an office or including copies with a mailed process.

Processing time varies by method. Online orders typically arrive within 1 to 2 weeks. Mail applications take 2 to 4 weeks from the date the SSA receives them. In-person applications at an office may be faster, but you'll need to check your local office's current wait times, as they vary widely.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order online at ssa.gov if you have a My Social Security account, a valid state ID, and a U.S. address; online orders arrive in 1 to 2 weeks.
  • Mailed applications require certified copies of documents proving identity, citizenship or immigration status, and age; processing takes 2 to 4 weeks.
  • In-person orders at a Social Security office require original or certified documents and may be faster depending on office wait times.
  • The SSA charges no fee for first cards, replacements, or cards with corrected names.
  • You will need to prove your identity with a state ID, passport, or other government-issued document; citizenship with a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers; and age with a birth certificate or passport.

Ordering online through My Social Security

The online process begins at ssa.gov/myaccount. If you don't have a My Social Security account, you'll create one using your email address, a password, and answers to security questions. The SSA will verify your identity by asking questions about your credit history or by sending a one-time code to your phone or email.

Once your account is set up and verified, you can request a replacement card if you've lost yours, it was stolen, or it's damaged. You cannot use the online system to order a card with a name change or to order your first card if you've never had a Social Security number. For those situations, you must mail an process or visit an office in person.

When you submit an online order, the SSA will mail your card to the address on file in your account. Make sure your mailing address is current before you submit. You can track the status of your order through your My Social Security account once it's been processed.

Mailing an process with documents

To order by mail, read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to request a copy. You'll fill out the form and mail it with certified copies of documents proving your identity, citizenship or lawful immigration status, and age. The SSA will not return these documents, so send copies, not originals.

Acceptable identity documents include a valid state driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID card. For citizenship or immigration status, you'll need a birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). Age can be proven with a birth certificate or passport. If you're changing your name, you'll also need to include a certified copy of the document showing the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Mail your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form itself, which varies by state. The SSA recommends using certified mail with return receipt so you have proof the process arrived. Processing begins when the SSA receives your envelope, not when you mail it, so allow time for postal delivery before the 2 to 4 week processing window begins.

explore in person at a Social Security office

To explore in person, locate your nearest Social Security office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213. You can walk in during business hours, but many offices now require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Bring your original documents or certified copies — the office staff will review them and may make copies for your file.

You'll complete Form SS-5 at the office with help from staff if needed. Bring your state ID or passport, birth certificate or passport, and any documents related to a name change if that applies. The office will submit your process when ready, and you'll receive a receipt showing your process date.

Processing time after your in-person visit is the same as for mailed applications — typically 2 to 4 weeks — but you avoid the delay of postal delivery. Some offices are busier than others; calling ahead or checking online will tell you whether your local office has a long wait list.

What to do if your name has changed

If you've married, divorced, or legally changed your name, you'll need to order a card with your new name. You cannot do this online; you must mail an process or visit an office in person. Along with Form SS-5 and your identity and citizenship documents, include a certified copy of the document that shows your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order from a name change proceeding.

The SSA will update your Social Security record with your new name and issue a new card. This does not change your Social Security number; the number stays the same throughout your life. If you've had multiple name changes, bring documents for each one in order.

If you need a card urgently or your office is closed

If you need proof of your Social Security number before your card arrives, you can print a replacement Social Security number document from your My Social Security account. This document shows your name, date of birth, and Social Security number and can be used in place of a card for some purposes, such as opening a bank account or starting a job.

If your local Social Security office is closed due to staffing or other reasons, you can still mail an process or use the online system if you're may be able to access. Call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm whether your office is open and to ask about alternative locations nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a card if I don't have a state ID?

Yes. You can use a passport, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID to prove your identity. If you're explore by mail or in person and don't have any of these, call your local Social Security office to ask what other documents they will accept in your situation.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You'll need to prove citizenship or lawful immigration status. A U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) will work. If you have a foreign birth certificate, you may also need a Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office to confirm which documents explore to your situation.

How long does it take to get a card if I order online?

Online orders typically arrive within 1 to 2 weeks. You can track the status through your My Social Security account. If your card doesn't arrive within that timeframe, contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Do I need to order a new card if my name changed but I want to keep using my old name?

No. Your Social Security card shows the name on your Social Security record. If you've legally changed your name but don't update your record, your card will still show your old name. You only need to order a new card if you want your record and card to reflect your current legal name.

What if I lost my card and don't have a My Social Security account?

You can create a My Social Security account and order online, or you can mail Form SS-5 with copies of your documents, or visit your local Social Security office in person. All three methods are free and will result in a replacement card.