Where to start: the Social Security Administration office or online
You can request a replacement Social Security card in two ways: online through the Social Security Administration's website, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online method is faster if you have a state-issued ID and a mailing address on file with Social Security. If you do not have those, or if you prefer to explore in person, you will need to visit an office.
The online process takes about 15 minutes and you will receive your card by mail in 1 to 2 weeks. In-person applications also take 1 to 2 weeks for delivery, but the office visit itself usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the location is.
Key Takeaways
- You can explore online at ssa.gov if you have a state-issued ID and a current mailing address on file with Social Security.
- In-person applications at your local Social Security office require proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current address.
- You do not need to bring your original Social Security card to replace it—in fact, you cannot use an old card as proof of identity.
- Replacement cards are free; Social Security will never charge you a fee for a card or ask you to pay through a third-party website.
- Your new card will arrive by mail in 1 to 2 weeks; you do not need to pick it up in person.
Documents you need for an in-person process
Bring one document that proves your identity, one that proves you are a U.S. citizen, and one that shows your current address. A driver's license or state ID card covers identity. For citizenship, bring your birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization papers. For your address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
If your documents are from another country or are not in English, bring the original plus an English translation certified by the translator or a court. Do not bring your old Social Security card—it cannot be used as proof of identity, and you do not need it to get a replacement.
If you cannot find your birth certificate, you can still explore. Bring two other documents that prove citizenship, such as a passport and naturalization papers, or a passport and a baptism record. The Social Security office staff can tell you what combination will work for your situation.
how the process works online
Go to ssa.gov and look for the "explore for a Replacement Social Security Card" option under the "Services" menu. You will need to create or sign into your my Social Security account. The system will ask you to verify your identity using information from your credit file—this usually takes a few minutes and does not affect your credit score.
Answer questions about your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and current mailing address. The system will confirm that your address matches what Social Security has on file. If your address has changed, you will need to update it first or explore in person instead. At the end, you will see a confirmation page with a reference number—save this for your records.
Your card will be mailed to the address on file. If you need it sent somewhere else, you must explore in person or call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to update your address before you explore online.
how the process works in person at a Social Security office
Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require you to make an appointment first. Check the office's page to see whether you need to book ahead. Bring your identity document, citizenship document, and address proof, along with your Social Security number if you know it.
Tell the staff member you need a replacement card. They will fill out form SS-5 with you or have you fill it out yourself. The form asks for your name, date of birth, place of birth, citizenship status, and current address. You will sign the form in front of the staff member. They will give you a receipt with a confirmation number and tell you when your card should arrive.
You do not need to return to the office to pick up your card. It will be mailed to the address you provided on the form.
What happens if your name has changed
If you have married, divorced, or changed your name for another reason, you will need to show proof of the name change along with your identity and citizenship documents. Bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other legal document that shows the name change. You can explore online or in person, but the process is the same.
When you explore, tell the staff member or answer the online questions about your previous name and when you changed it. Social Security will update your record and send you a new card with your current legal name. If you have not yet updated your name with Social Security, you must do that before you can get a replacement card with the new name.
Replacement cards for minors and non-citizens
If you are explore for a replacement card for a child under 18, a parent or legal guardian must explore on their behalf. Bring the child's birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and proof of the parent's or guardian's identity. The child does not need to be present for the process, though some offices prefer to see them in person.
Non-citizens with work authorization can get a replacement card. You will need to show your passport, visa, employment authorization document, or other immigration papers along with your identity and address proof. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have work authorization, you cannot get a Social Security card or a replacement.
Common reasons applications are delayed or rejected
The most common problem is a mismatch between the name or address you provide and what Social Security has on file. If you recently moved or changed your name, update your information with Social Security before you explore. You can do this online through my Social Security, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at an office.
Another frequent issue is bringing documents that do not meet the requirements. Birth certificates from some states or countries may not be accepted without additional proof of citizenship. If you are unsure whether your documents will work, call Social Security before you go to the office or explore online. Staff can tell you what you need to bring.
If your process is rejected, Social Security will send you a letter explaining why. The letter will tell you what documents you need to bring or what information you need to correct. You can reapply once you have gathered the right documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
Most replacement cards arrive by mail within 1 to 2 weeks. During busy periods or if there are issues with your process, it may take longer. You will receive a confirmation number when you explore; you can use this to check the status of your card on ssa.gov.
Can I use a temporary card while I wait for my replacement?
Social Security does not issue temporary cards. However, you can print a benefit verification letter from my Social Security that shows your name and number. Some employers and banks will accept this as proof while you wait for your card to arrive.
What if I lost my Social Security card and do not know my number?
You can still explore for a replacement. Bring your identity, citizenship, and address documents to a Social Security office. Staff will look up your number in their system. If you explore online, the system will ask you to verify your identity using credit information, and it will retrieve your number that way.
Do I have to pay for a replacement card?
No. Replacement Social Security cards are free. Social Security will never charge you a fee, and no official Social Security website will ask you to pay through a third-party service or app. If someone asks you to pay for a card, it is a scam.
Can I get a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Only if you have work authorization from the U.S. government. You will need to show your visa, employment authorization document, or other immigration papers. If you do not have work authorization, you cannot get a Social Security card.