You need to go to your local Social Security office in person with proof of identity and citizenship

The Social Security Administration does not mail replacement cards or let you order them online. You must visit a Social Security office near you, bring documents that prove who you are and that you are a U.S. citizen or authorized immigrant, and fill out Form SS-5 on the spot. The office staff will take your documents, photograph, and signature, then mail your new card to the address you provide — usually within two weeks.

You can find your nearest office by entering your zip code at ssa.gov/locator. Many offices now let you book an appointment online instead of waiting in line, though walk-ins are still accepted. Bring your documents with you; do not mail them ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Social Security office in person with a government-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal residency.
  • Form SS-5 is the only form you need, and the office will provide it — you do not have to bring it with you.
  • Your replacement card arrives by mail in about two weeks; the office does not issue cards on the spot.
  • If you cannot go in person due to disability or age, you can request a home visit by calling 1-800-772-1213 and explaining your situation.
  • You do not need to bring your old card if it is lost or stolen, but bring it if you still have it.

What documents to bring to the Social Security office

Bring one government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The Social Security Administration will not accept a school ID, library card, or work badge. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and a utility bill in your name.

You also need proof that you are a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the United States. A U.S. birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate all work. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your passport or immigration documents. If your documents are in another language, bring the original plus an English translation certified by the translator or a notary.

Bring your old Social Security card if you still have it. If it is lost or stolen, you do not need it — just tell the office staff. Bring any documents that show your current legal name if it has changed since your last card was issued, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

How to book an appointment or walk in

Visit ssa.gov/locator and type in your zip code to find offices near you. Most offices now show appointment availability online. Click on your nearest office, select a date and time that works for you, and confirm. You will get a confirmation number — write it down or take a screenshot.

If you cannot book online or prefer to walk in, you can still visit without an appointment. Arrive early in the morning; offices are usually less crowded before 10 a.m. Bring all your documents even if you have an appointment, because the office will ask for them when you arrive.

If you are over 75 or have a disability that makes it hard to leave home, call 1-800-772-1213 and ask about a home visit. A Social Security representative can come to you, though this takes longer — usually four to six weeks instead of two.

What happens at the office and how long it takes

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give your confirmation number if you have an appointment. A staff member will call you to a window, ask you to sign Form SS-5, and take your photograph. The whole visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

The staff member will tell you when to expect your card. Standard processing takes about two weeks. If you need your card faster — for example, to start a new job — ask about expedited service, though this is not always available and may cost extra.

Your new card will be mailed to the address you give at the office. If you move before it arrives, you can update your address with Social Security by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local office again. Do not try to change the mailing address by mail or email.

If your card was stolen or you suspect fraud

If someone stole your card or you think someone is using your Social Security number without permission, tell the Social Security office staff when you explore for your replacement. They will make a note in your file. You should also check your credit report at annualcreditreport.com (the only free, official source) to see if anyone opened accounts in your name.

If you find fraudulent accounts, contact the companies directly and ask them to close the accounts. You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov. Keep copies of everything you report, because you may need them if the fraud continues.

Getting a replacement card does not stop someone from using your number if they already have it. The Social Security Administration cannot change your number just because your card was stolen, though you can request a new number in rare cases if you can show ongoing fraud that a replacement card will not fix.

What to do if you cannot find your documents

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the state where you were born. Visit the vital records office website for that state — search "[your state] vital records" — and follow their instructions. Birth certificates usually arrive within one to three weeks, though expedited service costs extra.

If you were born outside the U.S. and cannot get your original documents, bring whatever you have: an old passport, immigration papers, or a letter from your employer or school stating your name and date of birth. The Social Security office may ask you to get additional documents, but they can sometimes work with what you bring.

If you have lost your photo ID as well, you can use two documents that show your name and date of birth instead — for example, a utility bill and a bank statement. The documents do not have to be government-issued, but they do have to show your current name and address.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?

There is no fee. The Social Security Administration does not charge for replacement cards, and no legitimate government office or website will ask you to pay. If someone asks for money to replace your card, it is a scam.

Can someone else pick up my card for me?

No. Your replacement card is mailed to the address you provide at the office, so you do not need to pick it up. If you need someone to handle the process for you because you cannot go in person, call 1-800-772-1213 and ask about a home visit or power of attorney options.

What if I changed my name and do not have a marriage certificate?

Bring whatever documents show your name change — a court order, divorce decree, or adoption papers. If you do not have the original, bring a certified copy from the court or the agency that issued it. The Social Security office can sometimes work with a notarized copy if the original is not available.

Can I get a replacement card while I am out of the country?

No. You must visit a Social Security office in the United States in person. If you are living abroad temporarily, you can visit a U.S. embassy or consulate to explore, though not all embassies offer this service. Call 1-800-772-1213 before you travel to find out which embassies can help.

How long does it take to get a replacement card if I am in a hurry?

Standard processing takes about two weeks. Some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, but this is not available everywhere. Ask the staff member at your local office whether expedited service is an option and what it costs.