You can get a new Social Security card from your local Social Security office, by mail, or online if you meet certain conditions
The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues replacement cards at no cost through three main routes: in person at a Social Security office, by mail through Form SS-5, or online through an SSA account if you have a state ID or driver's license. Which route works for you depends on whether you need the card urgently, whether you have the required documents, and whether your state participates in the online option. Most people can complete the process without leaving home, though some situations require an in-person visit.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov/myaccount if you have a state-issued ID or driver's license and live in a participating state.
- The mail route uses Form SS-5, takes two to four weeks, and requires proof of identity, citizenship, and age — all originals or certified copies.
- In-person visits at a Social Security office are fastest but require an appointment, which you book through ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
- You must show original documents or certified copies; photocopies and digital photos are not accepted.
- If your name has changed, you need legal proof of the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
explore online through your SSA account
The online option is the fastest route if your state participates and you have the required ID. You create or log into your account at ssa.gov/myaccount, answer identity verification questions, and request a replacement card. The SSA mails the card to your address on file, usually within five to seven business days. This option works only if you have a current state-issued ID or driver's license and you are not changing your name.
Not all states participate in online replacement yet. The SSA website lists which states offer this option. Even if your state does not, you can still use the mail or in-person routes. The online method also does not work if you need to correct information on your card — for example, if your name changed or if the card shows an error in your birth date.
Mailing Form SS-5 to the Social Security Administration
Form SS-5, the process for a Social Security Card, is the traditional route and works from any state. You fill out the form, gather your documents, and mail everything to the address listed on the form itself. Processing takes two to four weeks from the date the SSA receives your process. You can read the form from ssa.gov or request a copy by calling 1-800-772-1213.
You must include original documents or certified copies — photocopies and photos taken on your phone will not be accepted. The SSA requires proof of identity (such as a driver's license or passport), proof of citizenship (such as a birth certificate or passport), and proof of age (usually the same document as citizenship proof). If your name has changed, include the legal document showing the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Do not mail original documents unless you are willing to lose them; send certified copies instead, which you can obtain from the issuing agency.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
An in-person visit is the fastest option if you need the card quickly and can get an appointment. Social Security offices process replacement cards on the spot or within days. You book an appointment through ssa.gov/appointments or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Walk-ins are not may provide service, so scheduling ahead is strongly recommended.
Bring the same documents required for the mail route: originals or certified copies of proof of identity, citizenship, and age. If your name has changed, bring the legal document proving the change. The office staff will review your documents, take your process, and tell you when to expect your card. Many offices mail the card within one week, though some issue it on the spot.
What documents you need to bring or send
| Document Type | Examples | Original or Copy? |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID | Original or certified copy |
| Proof of Citizenship | Birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers | Original or certified copy |
| Proof of Age | Birth certificate, passport (usually same as citizenship proof) | Original or certified copy |
| Proof of Name Change (if applicable) | Marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order | Original or certified copy |
The SSA will not accept photocopies, faxes, or photos taken on a phone. If you do not have an original, contact the agency that issued the document — your state vital records office for a birth certificate, your county clerk for a marriage certificate, or your court for a court order — and request a certified copy. Certified copies cost a small fee, usually between $5 and $25 depending on the state and document type.
Situations that require an in-person visit
Some circumstances force you to visit a Social Security office rather than use mail or online options. If you are changing your name, you must show the legal document proving the change in person. If your card shows an error in your name, birth date, or other information, you must correct it at an office. If you are under 18 and explore for your first card, a parent or guardian must appear with you. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must visit an office to show your immigration documents.
If you have lost multiple cards or suspect fraud, the SSA may require an in-person interview to investigate. Call 1-800-772-1213 to ask whether your situation requires a visit, or check ssa.gov for details about your specific circumstance.
What happens after you submit your process
Once you submit your process — whether online, by mail, or in person — the SSA processes it and mails your card to the address on file. Online requests typically arrive within five to seven business days. Mail applications take two to four weeks. In-person applications may be processed the same day or within a few days. You do not need to do anything else; the card arrives without further action from you.
If your card does not arrive within the expected timeframe, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status. Have your Social Security number ready. The SSA can tell you whether your process is still being processed or whether there is a problem. If documents were missing or unclear, they will ask you to resubmit or visit an office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to show my old card when I explore for a replacement?
No. You do not need your old card to request a replacement. If you have it, you can bring it, but it is not required. If your old card was lost or stolen, you can still explore without it.
Can I get a replacement card if I have changed my name?
Yes, but you must show legal proof of the name change. Bring your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order along with your other documents. You cannot change your name online; you must visit an office or mail Form SS-5 with the legal document.
How much does a replacement card cost?
There is no fee. The Social Security Administration issues replacement cards at no cost. If someone charges you to get a card, they are running a scam.
What if I need the card for a job that starts soon?
Visit a Social Security office in person and book an appointment through ssa.gov/appointments or 1-800-772-1213. In-person processing is fastest. Tell the office staff you need the card urgently; some offices can issue it the same day or within a few days. If you cannot wait, ask your employer whether they accept a receipt showing you have applied — many do while the card is in the mail.
Can I explore for a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid visa or work authorization. You must visit a Social Security office in person and bring your immigration documents along with proof of identity and age. Call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm what documents your specific visa category requires.