Getting a Replacement Card Through the Social Security Administration

You can get a replacement Social Security card by contacting the Social Security Administration (SSA) directly. The SSA handles all replacements and issues new cards with the same number as your original. You do not need to visit a local office — you can start the process online, by mail, or in person, depending on what works for your situation.

The fastest route is the SSA's online replacement service at ssa.gov. You can request a replacement card there if you have a my Social Security account and a valid state-issued ID. The process takes about 10 to 14 business days from the time the SSA receives and approves your request. If you do not have an online account or prefer not to use one, you can mail in Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) or visit a local Social Security office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • The Social Security Administration issues replacement cards at no cost, and you can request one online at ssa.gov if you have a my Social Security account and valid state ID.
  • By mail, you will need to complete Form SS-5, include proof of citizenship and identity, and mail the packet to your local SSA office — this takes three to five weeks.
  • In-person visits to a local Social Security office require the same documents as the mail route and typically result in a card within two weeks.
  • You will need to show original or certified copies of documents proving your citizenship, identity, and age — a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate usually covers these.
  • If you do not have the documents the SSA requires, you can bring alternative documents, but the office may ask you to return with originals before processing your request.

What Documents You Need to Bring

The SSA requires proof of three things: your citizenship, your identity, and your age. A single document can cover more than one category. A U.S. passport covers all three. A state driver's license or state ID covers identity and age. A birth certificate covers citizenship and age. If you have a passport and a driver's license, you have everything you need.

The SSA accepts either original documents or certified copies. If you bring originals, the office will look at them and hand them back. If you mail documents, send certified copies, not originals — the SSA will not return mailed documents. You can request certified copies of your birth certificate from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born, usually for a small fee.

If you do not have standard documents, the SSA has a list of alternatives. A school ID, a work ID, a medical record, a bank statement, or a utility bill can all work as secondary proof. However, the office may ask you to come back with primary documents before they process your card. Bringing what you have is better than not showing up, but plan for a second visit if your documents are not standard.

explore Online at ssa.gov

To use the online replacement service, go to ssa.gov and sign in to your my Social Security account. If you do not have an account, you can create one on the same page. You will need an email address, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a cell phone number or a credit card on file with a major bank.

Once you are signed in, select "Replacement Social Security Card" from the menu. Answer the questions about your citizenship status, whether your name has changed, and whether you have ever been issued a card before. Upload a photo of your state ID or driver's license. The system will confirm your identity and tell you right away whether your request was accepted.

If the system approves your request, the SSA will mail your new card to the address on file. You do not need to do anything else. If the system asks for more information or denies the request, follow the instructions on screen — you may need to mail in Form SS-5 instead or visit an office in person.

Mailing in Form SS-5

read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or pick one up at a local Social Security office. Fill in your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and the reason for your request (mark "Lost card"). Sign and date the form. Make copies of your citizenship, identity, and age documents — do not send originals.

Mail the completed form and copies to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number so the office can contact you if they have questions. Mail the packet using a method that lets you track it, like certified mail or a carrier with tracking.

Processing takes three to five weeks from the time the SSA receives your packet. If the office needs more information, they will call or mail you. Once approved, your new card will arrive by mail within a few days. If you do not hear back within six weeks, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.

Visiting a Local Social Security Office in Person

Find your nearest Social Security office on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Call ahead or check the office's hours online — many offices now require appointments. Bring your original or certified copies of documents proving citizenship, identity, and age. Arrive early; offices often have long waits, especially in the morning.

Tell the staff member at the desk that you need a replacement card. They will give you Form SS-5 to fill out or may fill it out for you while you wait. Hand over your documents. The office will review them on the spot and tell you whether they accept them. If they do, your new card will arrive by mail within two weeks.

If the office says your documents are not acceptable, ask what alternatives they will take. You may be able to bring different documents on a second visit, or the office may mail you a list of what they need. Do not leave without knowing exactly what to bring back.

What Happens If Your Name Has Changed

If you have married, divorced, or legally changed your name since your original card was issued, tell the SSA when you request your replacement. You will need to show proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will issue a new card with your current legal name.

If you are explore online, the system will ask whether your name has changed. If you are mailing Form SS-5 or visiting in person, write your current name on the form and bring the name-change document with your other proof. The process is the same; it just takes one extra document.

Replacing a Card if You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

If you are a lawful permanent resident, a refugee, or in the U.S. on a valid visa, you can get a Social Security card. You will need to show proof of your immigration status — your green card, refugee travel document, or visa and passport. You will also need proof of identity and age, the same as any other applicant.

The process is identical whether you explore online, by mail, or in person. The only difference is the documents you bring. If you are not sure whether your immigration status qualifies you for a card, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 before you explore. They can tell you what documents you need and whether you are able to get one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

Online requests take 10 to 14 business days. Mailed applications take three to five weeks. In-person visits usually result in a card within two weeks. Times vary by location and how busy the office is.

Do I have to pay for a replacement card?

No. The SSA issues replacement cards at no cost. If someone asks you to pay, they are not with the SSA. Be cautious of third-party services that charge fees to help you get a card.

Can I get a replacement card if I do not have a state ID?

Yes. You can use a passport, birth certificate, school ID, work ID, or other documents the SSA accepts. Call 1-800-772-1213 to ask whether a specific document will work before you explore.

What if I lost my card and do not remember my Social Security number?

Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. They can look up your number if you provide your name, date of birth, and other identifying information. You will need your number to request a replacement online or by mail.

Can someone else request a replacement card for me?

No. You must request the card yourself, either online, by mail, or in person. A parent or guardian can request a card for a minor child by visiting an office in person with the child and the required documents.