What to bring when you request a replacement card

You need proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current legal name. The Social Security Administration (SSA) accepts specific documents for each category — you cannot mix and match freely, and not every ID counts.

For identity, bring an original or certified copy of a document issued by a government agency. A driver's license, passport, or state ID card works. If you do not have one of those, the SSA also accepts a mine safety and health administration (MSHA) card, railroad retirement card, or employee ID card from a federal, state, or local government agency. School IDs, library cards, and credit cards do not count.

For citizenship, bring your original U.S. passport, a certified copy of your birth certificate, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of U.S. citizenship. If you were born outside the United States, a consular report of birth abroad also works. You must bring the actual document — a photocopy is not enough.

For your current legal name, bring a document that shows the name you use now. This can be the same document you used for identity or citizenship. If you changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA needs to see that your name change was official.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original or certified government-issued ID, an original citizenship document, and proof of your current legal name to the Social Security office.
  • A driver's license or passport covers both identity and citizenship if you have a U.S. passport, but you may need separate documents for each category.
  • If you changed your name, bring the official document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • You can request a replacement card in person at your local Social Security office, by mail using Form SS-5, or online if you have a my Social Security account and meet certain requirements.
  • The SSA does not charge a fee for a replacement card, and you typically receive it within two weeks if you explore in person.

how the process works in person at a Social Security office

Walk into your local Social Security office with your documents and a completed Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card). You can fill out the form at home before you go or fill it out in the office. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for citizenship proof.

The office staff will review your documents, take your process, and give you a receipt. They will tell you when to expect your card. If you applied in person with all the correct documents, you usually receive your card within two weeks. Some offices are busier than others, so wait times vary.

To find your local office, go to ssa.gov and use the office locator tool. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to find the nearest office and ask about current wait times. Some offices let you make an appointment online; others work on a first-come, first-served basis.

explore by mail using Form SS-5

read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to request a copy by mail. Fill out the form completely and include certified copies of your identity document, citizenship document, and name-change document if applicable. Do not send original documents — always send certified copies.

Mail your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form. The address depends on which state you live in, so check the form carefully. Include a cover letter with your name, date of birth, and Social Security number so the SSA can match your process to your record.

Processing by mail takes longer than explore in person. You should expect to wait four to six weeks from the time the SSA receives your process. If you need your card sooner, explore in person is faster.

explore online through my Social Security

If you have a my Social Security account and meet certain requirements, you can request a replacement card online without visiting an office. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid driver's license or state ID, and have a Social Security number already assigned to you.

Log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. The system will walk you through the request and may ask you security questions to verify your identity. If you meet all the requirements, you can complete the entire request online. The SSA will mail your card to the address on file.

Online requests typically take the same amount of time as in-person requests — usually within two weeks. This option is available in all 50 states, but not everyone meets the requirements. If you do not have a my Social Security account, you can create one on the SSA website.

What happens if you cannot find your documents

If you do not have a certified copy of your birth certificate or citizenship document, you can request one from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This takes extra time and may cost a small fee, but it is the only way to get an official certified copy.

If you cannot locate your original documents and cannot get certified copies in time, tell the SSA staff when you explore. In rare cases, the SSA may accept alternative documents or a signed statement from someone who knows you, but this is not may provide. The best approach is to contact your local Social Security office before you visit to ask what alternatives they might accept in your specific situation.

If you were born outside the United States and do not have a U.S. passport or certificate of naturalization, a consular report of birth abroad is the standard document. If you do not have that either, contact the U.S. State Department or the embassy or consulate where you were born to request one.

Replacing a card that was lost, stolen, or damaged

The process is the same whether your card is lost, stolen, or damaged. Bring the same documents you would bring for any replacement: proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current legal name. You do not need to report the loss or theft to the SSA before you explore for a replacement — just explore for a new card.

If your card was stolen and you are concerned about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the credit bureaus separately. The SSA does not manage that process. Contact Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion directly, or visit identitytheft.gov for guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?

There is no fee. The SSA does not charge for a replacement card, whether you explore in person, by mail, or online. If someone asks you to pay for a Social Security card, they are not with the SSA.

Can I get a replacement card the same day I explore?

No. The SSA does not issue cards on the spot. If you explore in person, you typically receive your card within two weeks. By mail, it takes four to six weeks. Online requests also take about two weeks.

What if my name on the Social Security record does not match my current legal name?

Bring the official document that shows your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will update your record and issue a card with your current legal name. You may need to visit an office in person for a name change; online requests may not be available for this situation.

Do I need to bring my old Social Security card to get a replacement?

No. You do not need to bring your old card. If you have it, you can bring it, but it is not required. The SSA can look up your record using your name, date of birth, and other information.

Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?

If you applied by mail or online, the card is mailed to your address. If you applied in person and cannot pick up the card yourself, ask the SSA office whether they can mail it to you or release it to someone you authorize. Policies vary by office, so call ahead to ask.