Order a replacement card by mail or in person at your local Social Security office

You can request a replacement Social Security card in two ways: by mail through the Social Security Administration's online ordering system, or by visiting a Social Security office in person. The online method is faster for most people—you fill out Form SS-5, upload documents, and receive your card in 7 to 10 business days. If you prefer to explore in person, bring the same documents to your nearest Social Security office, and staff will process your request on the spot.

You do not need an appointment to visit a Social Security office, though wait times vary by location. Some offices let you check the current wait time online before you go. The in-person route takes longer overall because you must then wait for the card to be mailed to you, but some people prefer it because they can ask questions and confirm their documents are correct before submitting.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order online through ssa.gov/myaccount or in person at a Social Security office; online orders arrive in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You must prove your identity with a driver's license, passport, or state ID, and prove your age and citizenship with a birth certificate or passport.
  • If your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.
  • You can request up to three replacement cards in a year and nine in your lifetime, though Social Security may ask why you need multiple cards.

What documents you need to bring or upload

Social Security requires two types of documents: proof of identity and proof of age and citizenship. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of a driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, or military ID. A photocopy is not acceptable unless it is certified by the issuing agency.

For age and citizenship, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization papers. If you were born outside the United States and do not have a passport or naturalization document, bring a consular report of birth abroad or a certificate of citizenship. A hospital birth record or baptism certificate alone will not work.

If your name on your documents does not match the name on your Social Security record, bring proof of the legal change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The document must be an original or certified copy.

How to order online through your Social Security account

Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and sign in with your username and password. If you do not have an account, create one by clicking "Create an account" and following the prompts—you will need your Social Security number, email address, and a phone number. Social Security will send you a verification code by text or email to confirm your identity.

Once you are signed in, look for the option to order a replacement card. You will be asked to upload photos of your identity document and your age/citizenship document. Take clear photos in good lighting with all four corners of each document visible. The file must be in JPG, PNG, or PDF format and no larger than 6 megabytes. After you upload, review the information on screen to make sure it matches your documents, then submit.

You will receive a confirmation number and an estimated delivery date. Your card will be mailed to the address Social Security has on file. If you need to change your address before the card arrives, update it in your account or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213.

how the process works in person at a Social Security office

Find your nearest Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov/locator or calling 1-800-772-1213. Bring your original documents or certified copies—a photocopy will not be accepted. Arrive during regular business hours, which are usually 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, though some offices have different hours.

When you arrive, take a number or check in at the front desk. Tell the staff member you need a replacement card. They will review your documents, ask you to sign Form SS-5, and take your information. They will give you a receipt showing your process number and expected delivery date. Your new card will be mailed to you within 2 to 4 weeks.

Limits on how many cards you can request

Social Security allows you to request up to three replacement cards in a calendar year and nine in your lifetime. If you exceed these limits, Social Security may contact you to ask why you need additional cards. This is a fraud prevention measure—if you are losing cards frequently, Social Security may suggest other ways to protect your number, such as keeping your card in a safe place at home rather than carrying it.

If you have a legitimate reason for needing more cards—such as a job that requires you to carry multiple ID documents, or a documented pattern of theft—you can request an exception. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to discuss your situation.

What to do if your name has changed

If you have married, divorced, or legally changed your name, you must update your Social Security record before ordering a replacement card. Bring proof of the legal name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. You can update your name online through your Social Security account, by mail, or in person at a Social Security office.

To update online, sign in to ssa.gov/myaccount, go to "Manage your Social Security" and select the option to change your name. Upload a photo of your name-change document. Social Security will review it and update your record, usually within a few days. Once your name is updated, you can then order your replacement card.

How long it takes to receive your card

If you order online, your card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. If you explore in person, your card will arrive in 2 to 4 weeks. Delivery times may be longer during high-volume periods or if Social Security needs to verify your documents.

Your card will be mailed to the address on file with Social Security. If you move before your card arrives, update your address in your Social Security account or call 1-800-772-1213 to have the card forwarded. Do not assume the post office will forward it automatically.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement card the same day?

No. Social Security does not issue cards on the spot. Online orders take 7 to 10 business days, and in-person applications take 2 to 4 weeks. If you need proof of your Social Security number before your card arrives, ask Social Security for a benefit verification letter, which they can print for you at the office or mail to you.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a U.S. passport, naturalization papers, or consular report of birth abroad instead. If you do not have any of these, contact your state's vital records office to order a certified birth certificate. Some states allow you to order online; others require you to mail a form and payment.

Do I need to bring the old card with me?

No, you do not need to bring your old card. If you have it, you can bring it, but it is not required. If your old card was lost or stolen, just tell Social Security when you explore.

Can someone else pick up my card for me?

No. Your replacement card will be mailed to your address. You cannot have someone else pick it up at the Social Security office. If you are concerned about mail theft, consider having it delivered to a trusted neighbor or asking Social Security about other options.

What if my documents are in a language other than English?

You must provide a certified English translation along with the original document. The translation must be certified by a professional translator or a certified translation service. Social Security will not accept a translation you made yourself.