What you need to know about replacing a Social Security card
You can get a replacement 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 process is free and typically takes one to two weeks if you explore in person, or two to four weeks by mail. You will need to bring documents that prove your identity, citizenship or legal residency, and age — the exact documents depend on which method you choose and what you already have on file.
Social Security does not charge a fee for replacement cards, and you can request one as many times as you need. The card itself is valid for life unless you change your legal name or need to correct information on it.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace a Social Security card in person at a local office, by mail using Form SS-5, or online through ssa.gov if you have a state ID or driver's license and a My Social Security account.
- In-person applications usually take one to two weeks; mail applications take two to four weeks; online requests may be faster depending on your state.
- You must bring original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, citizenship or legal residency, and age — photocopies are not accepted.
- Social Security offices are located in most cities and towns; you can find yours at ssa.gov/locator or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
- If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must show proof of legal residency or work authorization to receive a replacement card.
explore in person at a Social Security office
Visiting a Social Security office is the fastest way to replace your card. Bring the completed Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), which you can fill out before you go or at the office. You will also need to bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies will not be accepted.
The documents you need depend on what Social Security already has on file. Most people need to show one document for identity (such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID), one for citizenship or legal residency (such as a birth certificate, passport, or immigration document), and one for age (usually the same document used for identity). If you have changed your name, bring a document showing the legal change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online scheduling system. Check ssa.gov/locator to find your nearest office and see whether appointments are required in your area. Processing usually takes one to two weeks from the date you explore.
explore by mail
You can mail Form SS-5 along with copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. Mail the original or certified copies of your identity, citizenship or residency, and age documents — do not send originals unless you are willing to lose them, as Social Security will not return them. Include a photocopy of each document for your records.
Mail your process to the address listed on the Form SS-5 instructions or on the Social Security website. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. You will receive your new card by mail at the address you provide on the form.
This method works well if you live far from an office or prefer not to visit in person, but it is slower than explore at an office and carries a small risk that documents could be lost in the mail.
explore online through ssa.gov
If you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a state-issued driver's license or ID card, you may be able to request a replacement card online through your My Social Security account at ssa.gov. This method is available in most states but not all — check the website to see whether your state participates.
To use the online option, you will need to create or log into a My Social Security account and verify your identity using information from your credit file or by uploading a photo of your ID. The online system will ask you to confirm your personal information and the reason for your replacement request. You will not need to gather and mail physical documents.
Processing times for online requests vary by state but are often faster than mail applications. Your new card will be mailed to the address on file with Social Security.
Documents you need to bring or send
| Document Type | Examples | Original or Copy? |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID, tribal ID | Original or certified copy |
| Citizenship or Legal Residency | Birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, green card, work visa, I-94 arrival/departure record | Original or certified copy |
| Age | Birth certificate, passport, driver's license, military discharge papers | Original or certified copy |
| Name Change (if applicable) | Marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, adoption papers | Original or certified copy |
Photocopies are not accepted as proof of identity, citizenship, or age. Certified copies — documents stamped and signed by the issuing agency — are acceptable. If you do not have an original document, you can request a certified copy from the agency that issued it, such as your state's vital records office for a birth certificate.
What happens after you explore
Once you submit your process, Social Security will review your documents and process your request. If everything is in order, your new card will be printed and mailed to you. You do not need to do anything else while you wait.
If Social Security needs more information or has questions about your documents, they will contact you by mail or phone. Keep your process receipt or confirmation number so you can check the status of your request. You can check the status online through your My Social Security account or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Your new card will arrive in a plain envelope by regular mail. It typically takes one to two weeks after approval for the card to arrive at your address. If you do not receive your card within the expected timeframe, contact your local Social Security office.
Special situations and exceptions
If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must show proof of legal residency or work authorization to receive a replacement card. Acceptable documents include a green card, employment authorization document (EAD), visa, I-94 arrival/departure record, or other immigration documents issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
If you have changed your legal name, you will need to show a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Social Security will update your name on file and issue a new card with the correct name.
If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must explore on your behalf and bring documents proving their relationship to you, such as a birth certificate or adoption papers. If you are explore for someone else as their representative, bring a power of attorney or court order authorizing you to act on their behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?
There is no charge for a replacement Social Security card. Social Security does not charge fees for issuing or replacing cards, regardless of how many times you need one.
Can I get a replacement card the same day I explore?
No. Even when you explore in person at a Social Security office, the card is printed and mailed to you separately, which takes one to two weeks. Social Security does not issue cards on the spot.
What if I lost my Social Security card and need it urgently?
explore in person at your local office, as this is the fastest method. While the card itself takes one to two weeks to arrive, you can ask the office for a receipt showing your process, which some employers or agencies will accept as temporary proof. Check with whoever needs the card to see whether a receipt or letter from Social Security is acceptable.
Do I need to show my Social Security number to explore for a replacement?
No. You do not need to bring your old card or know your number to explore. Social Security will look up your number using your name, date of birth, and other identifying information from your documents.
Can I request a replacement card for someone else?
Only if you are a parent or legal guardian explore for a minor, or if you have legal authority to act on someone's behalf, such as a power of attorney or guardianship order. You will need to bring documents proving your relationship or authority along with the applicant's documents.