You can order a replacement card through the Social Security Administration website, but only if you meet specific requirements

The Social Security Administration lets you request a replacement card online through their website at ssa.gov, but the option is not available to everyone. You can use the online process only if you are a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, have a valid state-issued ID, and have a Social Security number already on file. If you do not meet these requirements, you will need to visit a local Social Security office in person or mail in a paper process.

The online process takes about 5 to 10 minutes to complete. You will need your state ID number, your Social Security number, and a mailing address. The card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after your request is processed. You cannot track the card's delivery status online once you have submitted your request.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be 18 or older, a U.S. citizen, and have a valid state ID to order online through ssa.gov.
  • The online process requires your state ID number, Social Security number, and a current mailing address.
  • Your replacement card will be mailed to the address you provide and should arrive within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you do not meet the online requirements, you can visit a Social Security office in person or mail a paper process instead.
  • You cannot request a replacement online if your name has changed or if you need to correct information on your Social Security record.

What you need before you start

Gather these items before you go to ssa.gov. You will need your state driver's license or state ID card number, your nine-digit Social Security number, and the mailing address where you want the card sent. The address must be a U.S. address; the Social Security Administration does not mail cards to addresses outside the United States.

Your state ID must be current and valid. If your ID has expired, you will not be able to complete the online request. You will also need access to a computer or phone with internet connection and a web browser. The Social Security Administration's website works on most modern browsers, but older versions of Internet Explorer may have problems.

Steps to request your card online

Go to ssa.gov and look for the "Replacement Social Security Card" option on the homepage. Click on it, then select "explore Online." You will be taken to a page that asks you to confirm you meet the requirements listed above. Read through the list and check the box that says you meet all of them.

Next, you will enter your state ID number and the state that issued it. The system will verify this information with your state's motor vehicle department. This verification usually takes a few seconds, but it can take up to a few minutes. Once your ID is verified, you will be asked to enter your Social Security number and confirm your current mailing address.

Review all the information you entered for accuracy. If anything is wrong, go back and correct it before you submit. Once you submit your request, you cannot change the information online. Click the final submit button, and you will see a confirmation page with a reference number. Write down this number or take a screenshot — you may need it if you have questions about your request.

What happens after you submit your request

The Social Security Administration will process your request and mail your card to the address you provided. You will not receive an email or text message confirming that your card has been mailed. The card should arrive within 7 to 10 business days, though delivery times can vary depending on your location and the postal service.

If your card does not arrive within 10 business days, you can contact the Social Security Administration by phone at 1-800-772-1213. Have your reference number ready when you call. The Social Security Administration's phone lines are busiest early in the week and early in the month, so calling on a Thursday or Friday afternoon may mean shorter wait times.

When you cannot order online

If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to request the card in person at a Social Security office. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must visit an office in person and bring documents proving your immigration status. If your state ID is expired or you do not have a valid state ID, you will need to visit an office or mail in a paper process.

You also cannot order online if your name has changed since your Social Security number was issued. Name changes — whether from marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason — require you to visit a Social Security office in person or mail in a paper process with a certified copy of the document that shows your name change. The same applies if you believe there is an error in your Social Security record or if you need to correct your name or date of birth.

Mailing in an process instead

If you cannot order online, you can mail Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) to your local Social Security office. You can read the form from ssa.gov or request a copy by calling 1-800-772-1213. You will need to include your completed form, your original or certified copy of your birth certificate, and a copy of a valid ID.

Mail your process to the address listed on the form for your state. Processing times for mailed applications are usually 2 to 4 weeks, though they can be longer during busy periods. You can call your local Social Security office to check on the status of your mailed process if you have not received your card within 4 weeks.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

If you prefer to handle this in person or do not meet the online requirements, you can visit a Social Security office. Find your local office at ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Most offices do not require an appointment, but some do, so check the office's page before you go.

Bring your original or certified birth certificate, a valid ID, and proof of your current address (such as a recent utility bill or lease). If your name has changed, bring the document that shows the change. Processing times at the office are usually faster than mailing — you may receive your card within 1 to 2 weeks. Some offices can issue a temporary card on the spot, though this is not standard practice everywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card ordered online?

The card should arrive within 7 to 10 business days after your request is processed. Processing itself is usually when ready, but mailing times depend on your location and the postal service. If you do not receive your card within 10 business days, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 with your reference number.

Can I order a replacement card if my name has changed?

No. Name changes require you to visit a Social Security office in person or mail in a paper process with a certified copy of the document showing your name change. The online process cannot handle name corrections.

What if my state ID is expired?

You cannot order online with an expired ID. You will need to visit a Social Security office in person or mail in Form SS-5 with a copy of your expired ID and other required documents. Some offices may accept expired IDs if they are only recently expired, so you can call ahead to ask.

Do I need to do anything special if I am ordering a card for someone else?

No. Only the person whose name is on the Social Security number can request a replacement card online. Parents or guardians requesting cards for minors must visit an office in person or mail in an process.

Can I track my replacement card after I order it online?

No. The Social Security Administration does not provide tracking for replacement cards ordered online. You will not receive an email or text when your card ships. If you need to know the status, call 1-800-772-1213 with your reference number after 10 business days have passed.