The Jamaica Social Security Office is in Queens, and you can visit in person to explore for or replace a card

The Social Security Administration operates a card center at 90-27 Queens Boulevard in Elmhurst, Queens. This office handles applications for new cards, replacements for lost or stolen cards, and name changes on existing cards. You do not need an appointment — the office operates on a walk-in basis, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed on federal holidays. You can also call the office directly at 718-205-5400 to ask about current wait times before you go, or to confirm they have the documents you plan to bring.

If you cannot visit in person, you have other routes: you can mail an process to the office, or you can visit a different Social Security office in New York City. The Jamaica location is one of several in the city, and some people find shorter waits at less-trafficked offices.

Key Takeaways

  • The Jamaica Social Security card center is at 90-27 Queens Boulevard in Elmhurst and accepts walk-ins Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • You will need proof of age (birth certificate, passport, or state ID), proof of citizenship or immigration status, and photo ID to explore for a new card.
  • Replacement cards for lost or stolen cards require the same documents plus a signed statement explaining what happened to the original card.
  • Processing takes about 10 to 14 business days after you submit your process in person; you can check status online using your Social Security number.
  • If you cannot visit Jamaica, you can mail your process to the office or visit another Social Security office in New York City.

What documents to bring for a new Social Security card

You need three types of documents: proof of age, proof of citizenship or immigration status, and photo identification. Proof of age can be a birth certificate, passport, or state driver's license. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate from the country where you were born.

For citizenship or immigration status, bring your U.S. birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or a valid visa and I-94 arrival/departure record. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card (Form I-551) or a receipt notice showing your process is pending.

Photo ID can be a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. If you do not have photo ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a school ID, employee badge, or insurance card.

What documents to bring for a replacement card

If your card was lost or stolen, bring the same three document types as for a new card: proof of age, proof of citizenship or immigration status, and photo ID. You also need to sign a statement at the office explaining that your card was lost or stolen. The office will provide this form — you do not need to bring it with you.

If your card was damaged (worn, faded, or torn), you can bring the damaged card itself instead of a written statement. Bring it with your other documents, and the office will take it and issue a replacement.

There is no fee for a replacement card. The office will give you a receipt showing your process was submitted, and your new card will arrive by mail in 10 to 14 business days.

how the process works by mail if you cannot visit in person

You can mail your process to the Jamaica office instead of visiting. read Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from the Social Security Administration website, or call 1-800-772-1213 to request a form by mail. Fill out the form completely and sign it.

Make copies of your documents — do not send originals. Copy both sides of your ID, your birth certificate, and your proof of citizenship or immigration status. Include the copies with your signed form in an envelope addressed to:

Social Security Administration 90-27 Queens Boulevard Elmhurst, NY 11373

Mail takes longer than in-person process. Processing time is typically 3 to 4 weeks after the office receives your envelope, plus mail delivery time in both directions. If you need a card quickly, visiting in person is faster.

Other Social Security offices in New York City

If the Jamaica office has a long wait or is inconvenient, you can visit a different Social Security office. The city has offices in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Each office handles the same services: new cards, replacements, and name changes. You can find the full list and hours on the Social Security Administration website by searching "Social Security offices near me" or calling 1-800-772-1213.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you choose the office with the shortest line. Early morning (right when the office opens) and mid-week (Tuesday through Thursday) typically have shorter waits than late afternoon or Monday and Friday.

What to expect when you arrive at the office

Bring all your documents and arrive with time to spare — the office closes at 4 p.m. and stops accepting new applicants before then. When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. Wait for your number to be called, then go to the window and hand over your documents.

The staff member will review your documents, ask you to sign the process form (Form SS-5), and take your photo if you are explore for a new card. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes once you reach the window, though the wait to reach the window can be longer depending on how busy the office is.

You will receive a receipt showing your process was submitted. Keep this receipt — it shows your process date and your Social Security number. Your new card will arrive by mail in 10 to 14 business days. You can check the status of your process online at ssa.gov using your Social Security number and other personal information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security card the same day I explore?

No. The Social Security Administration issues cards by mail only, not in person. After you submit your process at the Jamaica office or by mail, your card arrives in 10 to 14 business days. You will receive a receipt showing your process was submitted, which you can use as proof of your Social Security number while you wait.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can bring a passport, state driver's license, or state ID card as proof of age instead. If you do not have any of these, contact the office at 718-205-5400 to ask what other documents they will accept. You may need to bring additional documents to prove your identity and age.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Jamaica office?

No. The office accepts walk-ins during business hours (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.). You do not need to schedule ahead. However, you can call 718-205-5400 to ask about wait times before you go, which can help you choose the best time to visit.

Can someone else pick up my Social Security card for me?

No. Social Security cards are mailed directly to the address you provide on your process. Only you can receive the card at that address. If you need the card sent to a different address, you can update it on your process before you submit it at the office.

What if I lost my receipt showing I applied?

You can check the status of your process online at ssa.gov using your Social Security number and personal information. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to ask about your process status. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready when you call.