You can replace a Social Security card by visiting your local Social Security office in person, or by mail if you meet certain conditions

The Social Security Administration (SSA) handles all replacements. You cannot order a replacement card online, by phone, or through a third-party website. You must either go to an SSA office with the right documents, or mail your documents to the SSA if you are unable to visit in person and meet their mail-in requirements.

The process takes about two weeks if you explore in person, or four to six weeks by mail. You will receive your new card at the address on file. There is no cost to replace a card, and you do not need to bring your old card — though it helps if you have it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of citizenship or lawful residency to an SSA office; a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers all work.
  • Mail-in replacement is only available if you are age 18 or older, have a state-issued ID, and have not had more than three cards issued in the past 12 months.
  • You can find your local SSA office and check its hours on ssa.gov, or call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm what documents you need before you go.
  • Your new card will arrive by mail in about two weeks from an office visit, or four to six weeks if you mail in your documents.
  • You do not need your old card to get a replacement, and there is no fee.

What documents to bring to an SSA office

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers — one of these is required to prove citizenship or lawful residency. You also need a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. If you do not have a photo ID, bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a school ID, employee badge, or medical record.

If you are explore on behalf of someone else — a child, an elderly parent, or someone unable to travel — you will need to bring proof of your relationship to them, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate. You will also need your own ID. Call your local SSA office before you go to confirm what documents they need for your specific situation.

how the process works in person at an SSA office

Go to ssa.gov and use the office locator tool to find the SSA office nearest you. The locator shows hours, phone numbers, and whether you need an appointment. Many offices now require appointments, which you can schedule online or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Some offices still accept walk-ins, but wait times can be long.

Bring your documents and a completed Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card). You can fill this out at home before you go, or at the office. The form is available on ssa.gov or at the office itself. Hand your documents and form to the staff member at the counter. They will review everything on the spot and tell you if anything is missing.

If your documents are in order, the SSA will take your process and mail your new card to you. You will receive it in about two weeks. You do not need to return to the office to pick it up.

explore by mail if you cannot visit an office

You can mail your documents to the SSA only if you are 18 or older, have a current state-issued ID, and have not had more than three Social Security cards issued in the past 12 months. If you meet these conditions, complete Form SS-5, make copies of your birth certificate and state ID, and mail them to the address listed on the form.

Do not send original documents by mail — always send certified copies or photocopies. The SSA will not return your documents. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number so they can contact you if something is missing. Mail everything to the address on Form SS-5, which varies by state.

Processing takes four to six weeks. You will receive your new card by mail at the address on file with the SSA. If you do not receive it within six weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.

What to do if you have lost your card multiple times

If you have had more than three cards issued in the past 12 months, the SSA will not issue another one by mail. You must visit an office in person. The staff member can review your account and may issue a replacement if they determine there is a legitimate reason for the repeated losses.

Bring the same documents you would bring for a regular in-person replacement: proof of citizenship or residency, and a photo ID. Be prepared to explain why you have lost your card multiple times. The SSA may ask you to sign a statement or provide additional information before they approve the replacement.

How to replace a card if you have changed your name

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you can get a new card with your updated name. Bring your original or certified birth certificate, a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. You also need a photo ID in your current name, or two documents showing your current name and date of birth.

The process is the same as a regular replacement: fill out Form SS-5, bring your documents to an SSA office, and your new card will arrive by mail in about two weeks. If your ID still shows your old name, bring it anyway along with the document that proves your name change.

What happens after you receive your new card

Once your new card arrives, you do not need to do anything else. Your Social Security number stays the same — only the card is replaced. You can use your new card right away for employment, banking, or any other purpose that requires it.

If you had your old card, you can destroy it by cutting it up or shredding it. Do not throw it away intact. You do not need to notify your employer, bank, or any other organization that you have a new card — your Social Security number has not changed, so your records remain the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement card the same day I explore?

No. The SSA mails all replacement cards. If you explore in person at an office, you will receive your card in about two weeks. If you mail in your documents, it takes four to six weeks. There is no way to receive a card on the same day.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You can bring other documents that prove citizenship or residency, such as a naturalization certificate, adoption papers, or a court order. Call your local SSA office to ask which documents they will accept in your situation. If you do not have any of these, you may need to obtain a birth certificate from your state's vital records office first.

Do I need to bring my old Social Security card to get a replacement?

No. You do not need your old card. If you have it, you can bring it, but it is not required. If your old card was lost or stolen, you can still get a replacement without it.

Can someone else pick up my new card for me?

No. The SSA mails all replacement cards directly to you at your address on file. You cannot have someone else pick it up at the office. If you need to change the mailing address on your account before you explore, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit an office in person.

What if my new card does not arrive after six weeks?

Call 1-800-772-1213 and provide your Social Security number and the date you applied. The SSA can check whether your card was mailed and provide a tracking update. If there was a problem with your process, they will tell you what to do next.