Where to request a new Social Security card

You can request a replacement Social Security card in three ways: in person at a Social Security office, by mail using Form SS-5, or online through ssa.gov if you meet certain requirements. The online option is the fastest route if you have a state-issued ID, are between 18 and 79, and have never had your card replaced before. If you do not meet those conditions, you will need to use the mail or visit an office.

To find your nearest Social Security office, go to ssa.gov/locator and enter your zip code. Most offices accept walk-ins, but you can also call ahead to schedule an appointment. Processing times vary: in-person requests typically take 10 to 14 business days, while mail requests can take 3 to 4 weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov if you are between 18 and 79, have a state-issued ID, and have never had your card replaced before.
  • In-person requests at a Social Security office usually take 10 to 14 business days; mail requests take 3 to 4 weeks.
  • You will need to bring proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of your current address when you visit an office or submit by mail.
  • If you have changed your name, you must also provide a document showing the legal name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

What documents you need to bring

The Social Security Administration requires three types of documents: proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of your current address. Proof of citizenship can be an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. A driver's license, state ID, or passport works as proof of identity.

For proof of your current address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. If you do not have a document with your current address, you can bring two documents that show your name and an older address, plus a statement explaining why you do not have current proof.

If you have changed your name since your last card was issued, bring the document that shows the legal change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Without this, the Social Security Administration cannot issue a card in your new name.

Requesting a card by mail

To request by mail, read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or pick one up at your local Social Security office. Fill out the form completely, sign and date it, and gather copies of your required documents. Do not send originals — make photocopies instead.

Mail your completed form and copies to the address shown on the form itself, which varies by state. Include a cover letter with your name, date of birth, and phone number so the Social Security Administration can contact you if they have questions. Mail requests typically take 3 to 4 weeks from the date they receive your package.

Requesting a card online

The online option at ssa.gov/myaccount is the fastest way to get a replacement card if you meet all the requirements. You must be between 18 and 79 years old, have a valid state-issued driver's license or ID, have a Social Security number already, and have never had your card replaced before. You will also need to set up a my Social Security account if you do not already have one.

The online process takes about 15 minutes. You will upload a photo of your ID and answer security questions to verify your identity. Once approved, your card will be mailed to the address on file with the Social Security Administration. Processing takes about 7 to 10 business days after approval.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

Walk into any Social Security office with your completed Form SS-5 and your original documents. Bring the originals, not copies — the office staff will examine them and return them to you. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though some locations now require one. Call ahead or check ssa.gov/locator to see if your local office requires an appointment.

Bring all three types of documents (citizenship, identity, and address proof) even if you think one might not be necessary. The staff can tell you on the spot if something is missing, and you can often provide it the same day. In-person requests are processed within 10 to 14 business days.

What happens if you have lost your card or it was stolen

Lost and stolen cards are handled the same way as any replacement request. You do not need to report the loss to the Social Security Administration first — just request a new card using one of the three methods above. The old card becomes invalid once your new one is issued.

If you are concerned about identity theft because your card was stolen, you can place a fraud alert on your credit report by contacting one of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

Requesting a card for a child or dependent

You cannot request a card online for anyone under 18. Instead, visit a Social Security office or mail Form SS-5 with the child's documents. You will need to bring or submit proof of the child's citizenship, identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), and your relationship to the child (such as a birth certificate showing you as the parent).

If the child does not have a state-issued ID, a birth certificate serves as proof of identity. You will also need to bring your own ID to prove you are authorized to request the card on the child's behalf.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?

There is no charge for a replacement card. The Social Security Administration does not charge fees for issuing or replacing Social Security cards.

Can I get a temporary card while I wait for my replacement?

No. The Social Security Administration does not issue temporary cards. If you need proof of your Social Security number before your card arrives, you can print a benefit verification letter from your my Social Security account at ssa.gov, or visit an office to request one in person.

What if my name has changed but I do not have the legal document to prove it?

You cannot get a card in your new name without proof of the legal change. Contact the court or agency that issued the original document (such as the vital records office for a birth certificate) to request a certified copy of the name change document before you explore.

Do I need to bring my old card when I request 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 Social Security Administration will deactivate your old card once your new one is issued.