Where to Start: The Social Security Administration

You request a replacement Social Security card directly from the Social Security Administration (SSA), not from your bank, employer, or any other agency. The SSA issues all Social Security cards and maintains the records tied to your number. You have three ways to request one: in person at a local Social Security office, by mail, or online if you meet certain requirements.

The fastest route for most people is the online process at ssa.gov/myaccount, which takes about 15 minutes and produces a card in 7 to 10 business days. If you cannot use the online system, you can walk into any Social Security office with your documents, or mail an process form to your regional office. Each method has different document requirements and timelines, which we cover below.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov/myaccount if you have a My Social Security account and a state ID or driver's license that matches your name.
  • In-person applications at a Social Security office require proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers) and a photo ID, and you walk out with a receipt the same day.
  • Mail applications require the same documents as in-person but take 2 to 4 weeks, and you must use Form SS-5 from the SSA website.
  • You do not need to pay any fee — replacement cards are always free.
  • If your name has changed, you will need to show legal proof of the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your citizenship and ID documents.

explore Online Through My Social Security

The online process is available to U.S. citizens age 18 and older who have a state-issued ID or driver's license that matches the name on your Social Security record. You must create a My Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount if you do not already have one. The account setup requires your Social Security number, date of birth, email address, and a phone number.

Once your account is set up, you log in and select "Replace your Social Security card" from the menu. The system will ask you to confirm your identity by answering questions about your financial history or by uploading a photo of your ID. After you submit the process, you receive a confirmation number by email. The SSA mails your new card to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office or mail anything in.

The online system does not work if your name on your ID does not match your Social Security record, if you are under 18, or if you are not a U.S. citizen. In those cases, you must explore in person or by mail.

explore In Person at a Social Security Office

Walk into any Social Security office with the documents listed below, and you can complete your process on the spot. You do not need an appointment, though some offices use a ticket system — take a number when you arrive. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you receive a receipt showing your process was received. Your new card arrives by mail in 1 to 2 weeks.

Bring these documents: proof of citizenship (original or certified birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization papers), a photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed, also bring the legal document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

To find your nearest office, go to ssa.gov/locator and enter your zip code. Some offices have longer wait times than others, so calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you plan. Bring all documents in originals or certified copies — the SSA will not accept photocopies of birth certificates or naturalization papers.

explore by Mail

read or request Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it with copies of your documents to the address listed on the form. The address depends on which state you live in — the form itself shows the correct mailing address for your location.

Include copies (not originals) of your proof of citizenship, photo ID, and proof of address. If your name has changed, include a copy of the legal document showing the change. The SSA will not return your documents, so send copies only. Mail your packet and allow 2 to 4 weeks for processing. You will receive your new card by mail at the address you provided on the form.

Keep a copy of the completed Form SS-5 for your records before you mail it. If you do not hear back within 4 weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to check on your process status — have your Social Security number ready.

Documents You Need: Citizenship and Identity

The SSA requires proof of citizenship and proof of identity for every replacement card request. Proof of citizenship means an original or certified birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. A photocopy of your birth certificate will not work — it must be an official certified copy with the raised seal or embossed stamp.

Proof of identity means a current, valid photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, military ID, or tribal ID. The name on your ID must match the name on your Social Security record. If it does not, you must first change your name with Social Security, which requires a separate process and proof of the legal name change.

If you were born outside the United States and are a U.S. citizen, bring your Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship instead of a birth certificate. If you do not have a photo ID, the SSA will accept other identity documents such as a school ID, employee ID, insurance policy, or bank statement — ask your local office what they accept.

If Your Name Has Changed

You must show legal proof that your name changed. This means a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. A photocopy will not work — bring the official document or a certified copy with the court seal.

If you changed your name through marriage or divorce, the document must show both your old name and your new name clearly. If you changed your name by court order, bring the court order itself. The SSA will not return these documents, so if you need the original, bring a certified copy instead.

Some people change their name with Social Security before requesting a new card. You can do both at the same time — bring the name-change document along with your citizenship and identity documents, and the SSA will update your record and issue a new card in one visit or process.

What Happens After You explore

Once the SSA receives your process, they verify your documents and update your record. If everything is in order, they print your new card and mail it to the address you provided. You do not need to do anything else — just wait for it to arrive.

If there is a problem with your documents or information, the SSA will contact you by phone or mail. This usually means a document was unclear, a name does not match, or they need more information. If they call, answer the phone or call them back at the number they provide. If they mail you a letter, follow the instructions in the letter and send back what they ask for.

Your old card remains valid until your new one arrives. You do not need to return the old card or destroy it — the SSA does not require you to do either. Once your new card arrives, you can use it right away for work, banking, or any other purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?

There is no fee. The SSA issues replacement cards at no cost to you. If someone offers to charge you for a replacement card, they are running a scam — go directly to the SSA instead.

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

No. The SSA only issues cards to U.S. citizens and certain non-citizens with work authorization. If you are not a citizen, contact your local Social Security office to find out whether you are may be able to access for a card.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot find it?

Contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. They can issue you a certified copy of your birth certificate, which the SSA will accept. The process usually takes 1 to 3 weeks depending on the state. You can request a certified copy by mail or in person.

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

Online applications take 7 to 10 business days. In-person applications take 1 to 2 weeks. Mail applications take 2 to 4 weeks. These timelines assume your documents are correct and complete — if the SSA needs more information, it will take longer.

Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?

No. The SSA mails cards only to the address on file. You cannot have someone else pick it up at an office. If you need the card quickly and cannot wait for mail delivery, explore in person at an office and ask about expedited mailing options when you submit your process.