You can request a replacement card online through the Social Security Administration's website if you meet certain requirements

The Social Security Administration (SSA) lets you request a replacement card online at ssa.gov/myaccount without visiting an office. You need a My Social Security account, a valid state-issued ID, and a U.S. mailing address. The process takes about 5 to 10 minutes, and the SSA mails your card to you — it typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though this varies by location.

Not everyone can use the online route. You cannot request a replacement online if you are under 18, if your name has changed and you cannot prove it with documents the SSA accepts, or if your Social Security number itself needs to be corrected. In those cases, you will need to visit a local Social Security office or mail in Form SS-5.

Key Takeaways

  • You must create a My Social Security account and verify your identity with a state ID before you can request a replacement card online.
  • The online process works only if you are 18 or older, your name matches SSA records, and you have a U.S. mailing address.
  • Your replacement card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days in most cases, though timing varies by region.
  • If your name has changed, you cannot use the online option and must visit an office or mail Form SS-5 with proof of the name change.
  • You can track your card's status through your My Social Security account after you submit your request.

Create and verify your My Social Security account

Before you can request a replacement online, you need a My Social Security account. Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and click "Create an account." You will enter your email address, create a password, and answer security questions. The SSA will send you a confirmation email — click the link in that email to set up your account.

After you create your account, you must verify your identity. The SSA uses a third-party service called ID.me to confirm who you are. You will upload a photo of your state-issued ID (driver's license, state ID card, or passport) and take a selfie. The verification usually completes within a few minutes, though it can take up to 24 hours. Once verified, you can log into your account and request your replacement card.

Check that you meet the requirements before requesting

The online replacement process has specific limits. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid Social Security number (not one that needs correction), and have a U.S. mailing address where you can receive mail. Your name must match exactly what the SSA has on file — if you have married, divorced, or changed your name for any other reason, you cannot use the online option.

You also cannot request a replacement online if your card was lost or stolen and you need it urgently for identity verification purposes — the SSA may require you to visit an office in person to confirm the loss. If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, log into your My Social Security account and start the request process; the system will tell you if you are ineligible before you submit anything.

Submit your replacement request through your account

Log into your My Social Security account and look for the "Replacement Social Security Card" option. You will answer a few questions: whether your card was lost, stolen, or damaged; whether your name has changed; and whether you need a different name on the card than what is in the system. Answer honestly — if you say your name has changed, the system will stop and direct you to visit an office instead.

Review the information the SSA shows you to make sure your name, date of birth, and mailing address are correct. If anything is wrong, do not submit the request online — contact your local Social Security office first to correct your records. Once you confirm everything is accurate, submit your request. The SSA will show you a confirmation number on the screen and send you a confirmation email.

Track your card and know what to expect when it arrives

After you submit your request, log back into your My Social Security account to check the status of your replacement card. The status page shows whether your request is being processed, whether your card has been mailed, and an estimated delivery date. In most cases, your card arrives within 7 to 10 business days, but delivery times vary — rural areas and some states may take longer.

Your replacement card arrives in a plain envelope with no return address. Open it carefully, as the card itself is fragile. Check that your name, date of birth, and Social Security number are correct. If anything is wrong, do not use the card — contact your local Social Security office with the card and proof of your identity to request a corrected replacement. If your card does not arrive within the estimated timeframe, check your account status again or call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213.

What to do if you cannot use the online option

If you are under 18, your name has changed, or your Social Security number needs correction, you must visit a Social Security office or mail in your request. To visit an office, go to ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you, then call ahead to schedule an appointment or check walk-in hours. Bring your state-issued ID, proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement).

If you prefer to mail your request, read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it with copies of your ID and citizenship documents to your local Social Security office. Include a note with your phone number so the SSA can contact you if they need more information. Mailed requests typically take 2 to 4 weeks to process, longer than the online option.

Common problems and how to fix them

If you cannot verify your identity through ID.me, the system may ask you to answer additional questions about your credit history or past addresses. Answer these questions as accurately as you can. If verification still fails, you will need to visit a Social Security office in person with your ID and proof of address.

If you submitted your request but your status page shows an error or your card never arrives, do not assume it is lost. Check your account status first — sometimes the status page updates slowly. If your account shows your request was submitted but you have not received your card after 15 business days, call 1-800-772-1213 to speak with someone who can investigate. Have your confirmation number ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I request a replacement card if I have changed my name since I got my current card?

No, you cannot use the online option if your name has changed. You must visit a Social Security office or mail Form SS-5 with proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will issue you a new card with your updated name.

How long does it take to get a replacement card after I submit my request online?

Most replacement cards arrive within 7 to 10 business days of submission. Timing varies by region and mail service. You can check your estimated delivery date in your My Social Security account status page.

What if I need my replacement card before it arrives in the mail?

If you need proof of your Social Security number urgently, you can print a benefit verification letter from your My Social Security account, which shows your number and is accepted by most employers and financial institutions. If you need the physical card itself, visit your local Social Security office to request an expedited replacement.

Can someone else request a replacement card on my behalf?

No, you must request your own replacement card through your My Social Security account. Only you can verify your identity and submit the request. If you are unable to do this yourself, a representative payee or legal guardian may visit a Social Security office on your behalf with proper documentation.

What should I do with my old card after my replacement arrives?

Destroy your old card by cutting it into pieces or shredding it. Do not throw it in the trash whole, as it contains your Social Security number. You do not need to return it to the SSA.