You can replace a lost Social Security card by visiting your local Social Security office in person, or by mail if you have a state ID or passport
The fastest way to replace a lost card is to walk into your nearest Social Security office with proof of identity and citizenship. You fill out form SS-5 on the spot, show your documents, and the office mails your new card to you within one to two weeks. If you cannot get to an office, you can mail the same form with copies of your documents, though this takes longer — typically three to four weeks from when they receive it.
You do not need to have your old card number memorized. Social Security keeps your number on file, and the replacement card will have the same number. The only reason to replace it is if the card itself is damaged, lost, or stolen.
Key Takeaways
- Visit your local Social Security office with a state ID or passport and completed form SS-5 to replace your card in one to two weeks.
- If you cannot visit in person, mail form SS-5 with photocopies of your ID and proof of citizenship to your regional Social Security office.
- You are allowed three replacement cards per year and ten in your lifetime, so there is no penalty for losing one.
- Your Social Security number stays the same — the card itself is what gets replaced, not your number.
- You do not need your old card to prove your number; Social Security has your number in their system.
What documents you need to bring in person
Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves your citizenship. For identity, a state driver's license or state ID card works best because it has your photo. A passport also works for both identity and citizenship at the same time.
For citizenship, if you are using a state ID for identity, you can bring a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. If you were born outside the United States and are a citizen, bring your naturalization certificate or passport. If you were born in a U.S. territory, bring your birth certificate from that territory.
Bring the completed form SS-5 with you, though the office will also have copies if you fill it out there instead. You do not need to bring your old card, your Social Security number, or any other paperwork.
how the process works by mail
read or request form SS-5 from the Social Security website or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Fill it out completely, including your name, date of birth, and place of birth. Sign and date it.
Make photocopies of your identity document (driver's license, state ID, or passport) and your citizenship document (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers). Do not send originals — send copies only. Include the completed form SS-5 and your copies in an envelope.
Mail everything to your regional Social Security office. You can find the address for your region on the Social Security website by entering your zip code, or call 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the mailing address. Mail typically arrives within three to four weeks of when the office receives it, though processing can take longer during busy periods.
What happens after you submit your request
Social Security will mail your new card to the address on your form. The card arrives in a plain envelope with no tracking number, so it usually takes five to seven business days after approval. If you do not receive it within two weeks of submitting your request in person, or three weeks of mailing your form, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.
You can use your Social Security number for employment and other purposes while you wait for the physical card. Your number does not change, so you can give it to your employer or bank when ready if you need to. The card itself is just proof of the number you already have.
Limits on how many times you can replace your card
You can replace your card up to three times in one calendar year and ten times in your lifetime. These limits exist to prevent fraud. If you have already used your three replacements this year, you will have to wait until January 1 to request another one, unless Social Security determines the loss was due to circumstances beyond your control.
If you have reached your lifetime limit of ten replacements, you will need to contact Social Security directly to explain your situation. Call 1-800-772-1213 and speak with a representative about whether an exception can be made.
If your card was stolen or you suspect fraud
Replacing a lost card is the same process as replacing a stolen one. However, if you believe someone is using your Social Security number fraudulently, take additional steps beyond just replacing the card. Check your credit report through annualcreditreport.com, which is the official free credit reporting site. Look for accounts or charges you did not open.
If you find fraudulent activity, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. This creates an official record and gives you steps to take with your bank and credit card companies. You can also place a fraud alert on your credit file, which makes it harder for someone to open new accounts in your name. The credit reporting agencies — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — handle fraud alerts, and you only need to contact one of them.
Replacing your card if you are not a U.S. citizen
If you have a valid work visa or other immigration status that allows you to work in the United States, you can replace your Social Security card the same way as a citizen. Bring your passport and your current visa or work authorization document as proof of identity and work status.
If your immigration status has changed since you first received your card, or if you are unsure whether you are still authorized to work, contact Social Security before you explore. Call 1-800-772-1213 and explain your situation. They can tell you whether you are may be able to access to replace your card and what documents to bring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
In person at a Social Security office, one to two weeks. By mail, three to four weeks from when the office receives your form, plus mail delivery time. The exact timeline depends on how busy your local office is.
Do I need my old card to get a new one?
No. Social Security has your number in their system. You do not need the physical card to prove your number or to replace it.
Can I replace my card if I do not have a state ID or passport?
You need some form of photo ID and proof of citizenship to replace your card in person. If you do not have a state ID or passport, contact your local Social Security office at 1-800-772-1213 to ask what other documents they will accept. Options may include a tribal ID, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID.
What if I lost my card and do not remember my Social Security number?
Social Security can look up your number using your name, date of birth, and place of birth. When you visit the office or mail your form, include this information and they will find your number. You do not need to remember it.
Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?
No. Social Security mails the card directly to the address you provide on your form. You cannot have someone else pick it up in person. If you need the card sent to a different address, include that address on form SS-5.