You can order a replacement Social Security card by mail, in person, or online through the Social Security Administration's website
The Social Security Administration (SSA) lets you request a new card in three ways: online at ssa.gov, by mail using Form SS-5, or by visiting a local Social Security office in person. The online method is fastest if you have a state-issued ID and a My Social Security account. By mail takes two to four weeks. In person is useful if you need the card urgently or have documents the SSA needs to see before processing your request.
You do not pay a fee to order a Social Security card. The SSA issues one free replacement card per year, and additional cards beyond that in the same year also cost nothing — you only pay if you want expedited processing through a third-party service, which is optional.
Key Takeaways
- The fastest way to order is online at ssa.gov if you have a state ID and can create a My Social Security account.
- By mail, you fill out Form SS-5, include proof of identity and citizenship, and wait two to four weeks for delivery.
- In-person visits to a Social Security office require an appointment, which you can schedule on the SSA website.
- You will need to prove your identity, age, and citizenship — the documents accepted vary slightly by method.
- The SSA issues one free replacement per year; additional cards in the same year are also free.
Ordering Online Through My Social Security
Go to ssa.gov and select "Create My Social Security Account" if you do not already have one. You will need a valid state-issued driver's license or ID card, a Social Security number, and an email address. The account setup takes about 10 minutes and includes identity verification steps.
Once your account is set up, log in and look for the "Replace Your Social Security Card" option. You will answer questions about why you need a replacement (lost, stolen, name change, or other reason) and confirm your mailing address. The SSA will mail your card to that address within 7 to 10 business days in most cases.
Online ordering works only if you have a state ID from one of the participating states. Not all states participate yet, so if your state is not listed, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead.
Ordering by Mail Using Form SS-5
read Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov or pick one up at a local Social Security office. Fill out the form completely, including your full name, date of birth, and the reason you need a replacement card.
Attach copies of documents that prove your identity, age, and citizenship. Identity documents can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID. For age, a birth certificate or passport works. For citizenship, bring your birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, or permanent resident card. The SSA accepts photocopies, but originals are safer if you can spare them — you will not get them back.
Mail the completed form and documents to your local Social Security office. You can find the address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Processing takes two to four weeks from the date the SSA receives your envelope. Send it certified mail if you want proof of delivery.
Ordering in Person at a Social Security Office
Schedule an appointment on ssa.gov by selecting "Schedule an Appointment" or call 1-800-772-1213. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but appointments are faster and let you avoid waiting in line.
Bring the same documents you would mail: proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of age (birth certificate or passport), and proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, or permanent resident card). Bring originals if possible, though the SSA can work with copies.
The office will process your request on the spot and mail your card to the address on file. You will receive it within 7 to 10 business days in most cases. If you need the card urgently, ask the office staff whether they can issue a temporary card or letter confirming your Social Security number while you wait for the physical card.
What Documents You Need
| Document Type | Acceptable Documents |
|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID, or employee ID |
| Proof of Age | Birth certificate, passport, or baptism record |
| Proof of Citizenship | Birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card |
If you do not have a birth certificate, the SSA will accept other documents that show your age and citizenship together, such as a passport or naturalization papers. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your permanent resident card (green card) or employment authorization document (EAD) instead of a citizenship document.
If Your Card Was Lost or Stolen
Report a lost or stolen card to the SSA when you order a replacement. On Form SS-5, mark the box for "Lost" or "Stolen" as the reason. If you are ordering online, select the same option when prompted.
Reporting it does not freeze your Social Security number or prevent someone else from using it — the SSA does not have a fraud alert system for Social Security numbers the way credit bureaus do. However, reporting it creates a record in case your number is misused later. If you suspect identity theft, contact the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov to file a report and get a recovery plan.
Replacing a Card After a Name Change
If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you need a new card that reflects your current legal name. The SSA will issue one free replacement for a name change.
Bring proof of your name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need the same identity, age, and citizenship documents as for any other replacement. The process is the same whether you order online, by mail, or in person — just mark "Name Change" as the reason on Form SS-5 or when prompted online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Social Security card?
Online orders arrive in 7 to 10 business days. Mail orders take two to four weeks from the date the SSA receives your envelope. In-person orders are also mailed and arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you need proof of your number before the card arrives, ask the office for a letter confirming your Social Security number.
Can I order a card if I do not have a birth certificate?
Yes. The SSA accepts other documents that prove your age and citizenship, such as a passport, naturalization certificate, or baptism record. Bring whatever documents you have and ask the SSA which ones they can use. If you have lost your birth certificate, you can order a replacement from your state's vital records office.
What if I need the card before the normal delivery time?
The SSA does not offer expedited card delivery. However, you can ask for a letter confirming your Social Security number at a local office, which you can use for employment or banking while you wait for the physical card. Some third-party services offer faster card delivery for a fee, but this is optional and not necessary for most purposes.
Do I need to order a new card if I changed my name but want to keep my Social Security number?
Yes. Your card shows your current legal name, so if your name changed, you need a new card with the updated name. Your Social Security number stays the same — only the name on the card changes. You will need to update your name with your employer, bank, and other institutions separately.
Can someone else order a card on my behalf?
A parent or legal guardian can order a card for a minor by mail or in person. For adults, only you can order your own card. If you are unable to visit an office or mail documents yourself, you can have someone help you prepare the paperwork, but you will need to sign Form SS-5 yourself.