What a Social Security card is and who needs one

A Social Security card is a physical card issued by the Social Security Administration that displays your nine-digit Social Security number. You need one to work legally in the United States, open a bank account, get a loan, or file taxes. Most people receive their first card automatically as infants, but if you were born before 1986, immigrated to the U.S., or lost your card, you will need to request a replacement or original card from Social Security.

The card itself is not a form of identification — it does not have your photo or signature. It is a record that proves you have a Social Security number. Many employers, banks, and government agencies ask to see it, but they are verifying the number, not using the card as ID.

You cannot get a Social Security card online or through the mail. You must explore in person at a Social Security office, and the process takes between 10 and 14 business days after you submit your process.

Key Takeaways

  • You must explore for a Social Security card in person at a Social Security office with proof of age, citizenship or immigration status, and identity.
  • Original cards for U.S. citizens born in the country are free; replacement cards cost nothing but are limited to three per year and nine in your lifetime.
  • The card arrives by mail 10 to 14 business days after you submit your process.
  • If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must show a valid visa or work authorization document to receive a card.

Documents you need to bring to explore

Social Security requires three types of documents: proof of age, proof of citizenship or immigration status, and proof of identity. You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.

For proof of age, bring your birth certificate, passport, or driver's license. For proof of citizenship, U.S. citizens bring a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. Non-citizens bring a valid visa, work authorization card (such as an Employment Authorization Document), or green card. For proof of identity, bring a driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID. If you do not have any of these, Social Security has a list of alternative documents on its website.

If you are explore for a child under 18, you must bring the child's documents plus your own ID. If you are explore on behalf of someone else who is unable to appear, you must bring a power of attorney or court order authorizing you to act on their behalf, plus your own ID.

How to find your local Social Security office and make an appointment

You can locate your nearest Social Security office using the office locator on the Social Security Administration website. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show you the address, phone number, and hours of operation for offices near you.

You do not need an appointment to explore for a Social Security card, but making one can reduce your wait time. To schedule an appointment, call the Social Security office directly or use the online appointment scheduler on the Social Security website. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait several hours during peak times.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get separated. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The process itself takes about 10 minutes, and the staff member will review your documents on the spot.

What happens after you submit your process

After you submit your process, Social Security mails your card to the address you provided. The card typically arrives within 10 to 14 business days. If you do not receive it after 14 days, call the Social Security office where you applied and provide your process receipt number.

While you wait for your card, you can still work and file taxes using your Social Security number. Your employer and the IRS do not need the physical card — they only need the nine-digit number. If you need proof of your number before the card arrives, ask the Social Security office for a printout of your process receipt, which displays your number.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can explore for a replacement using the same process. Social Security limits you to three replacement cards per year and nine total in your lifetime. There is no cost for the replacement.

Replacement cards and name changes

If your name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must explore for a new card with your updated name. Bring the same documents as for an original process, plus a certified copy of the document that shows your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

If you change your name but do not update your Social Security card, your name will not match your Social Security number in government and employer records. This can cause delays when you file taxes, explore for loans, or receive benefits. Update your card as soon as possible after a legal name change.

If you have already lost or damaged multiple cards, Social Security may ask you questions about why you need another one. This is normal and does not prevent you from getting a replacement.

What to do if you cannot find your birth certificate or citizenship documents

If you do not have your birth certificate, you can request one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This process takes several weeks and usually costs $15 to $30. The Social Security Administration website has links to vital records offices in all 50 states and U.S. territories.

If you are a non-citizen and do not have your visa or work authorization document, contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the U.S. Department of State to request a replacement. USCIS can issue a replacement Employment Authorization Document, and the State Department can issue a replacement visa.

If you cannot obtain these documents, Social Security has a process for applicants with missing documents. Call your local Social Security office to discuss your situation. In rare cases, Social Security may accept alternative documents or a notarized statement from someone who can verify your age and citizenship.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a valid visa or work authorization. You must show your visa or Employment Authorization Document when you explore. Refugees and asylees can also receive cards. Undocumented immigrants cannot receive a Social Security card.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You can still get a Social Security card. Bring your passport or birth certificate from the country where you were born, plus proof of U.S. citizenship (naturalization certificate or green card) or a valid visa. If your birth certificate is in another language, bring the original and an English translation certified by a translator.

How much does a Social Security card cost?

Original cards and replacement cards are free. There is no charge for explore, and Social Security does not charge for the card itself or for mailing it to you.

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

No. You must pick up your card yourself or have it mailed to your address. Social Security does not release cards to anyone else, even family members or authorized representatives. If you cannot travel to the office, request that your card be mailed to you.

What if my Social Security card was stolen?

explore for a replacement when ready using the same process as a lost card. You do not need a police report. Contact your bank and credit card companies to monitor your accounts for fraud. You can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by calling one of them and asking them to notify the others.