You can get a replacement card by mail, in person, or online depending on your state

The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues replacement cards at no cost through three main routes: online at ssa.gov (available in most states), by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online method is fastest when available — you can request a card and receive it within 7 to 10 business days. Mail and in-person requests typically take 2 to 4 weeks. You will need proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of current address. The SSA does not charge for the card itself, though some states charge a small fee for certified documents if you need them as proof of citizenship.

Which route works best depends on your situation. If you have a driver's license or state ID and can access the internet, the online method saves time. If you are under 18, requesting your first card, or live in a state with restrictions, you will need to use mail or in-person service instead. The SSA website will tell you when ready which methods are available to you.

Key Takeaways

  • The online request at ssa.gov/myaccount is the fastest method in most states and takes 7 to 10 business days from approval to delivery.
  • You must provide proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement).
  • If you cannot go online, you can mail Form SS-5 to your local Social Security office or visit in person with your documents.
  • The card itself is free, but you may pay a fee to get certified copies of your birth certificate or other citizenship documents from your state vital records office.

Requesting online through ssa.gov

The fastest path is the online request at ssa.gov/myaccount if you live in a state where the service is available. You will need to create or log into your my Social Security account. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history or by uploading a photo of your driver's license or state ID. Once approved, the SSA mails your card to the address on file.

Online requests are available in all 50 states as of 2024, though some states have restrictions — for example, if you are requesting your first card or if you are under 18, you may need to use mail or in-person service instead. The website will tell you when ready whether you can request online or must use another method. Processing takes about 7 to 10 business days after approval. You will receive an email confirmation once your request is submitted and another when your card ships.

Mailing Form SS-5 to your local office

If you cannot or prefer not to request online, you can print Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out, and mail it with your documents to your local Social Security office. You will find your office address on the SSA website by entering your zip code. Include original or certified copies of your proof of citizenship and identity documents — the SSA will not return them, so do not send originals you cannot replace.

Mail your completed form and documents in an envelope marked "Attention: Replacement Card Request" to speed processing. Processing by mail typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. If you are concerned about mail delivery, you can request a receipt by sending your envelope certified mail with return receipt requested. Keep the receipt until your card arrives.

explore in person at a Social Security office

Walk-in service is available at any Social Security office during business hours, though wait times vary by location. Bring your original documents or certified copies of your proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of current address. You do not need to fill out Form SS-5 in advance — staff will complete it with you. Processing at the office is when ready, and your card will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

To avoid a long wait, call your local office ahead of time or check ssa.gov for office hours and current wait times. Some offices offer appointment scheduling through the website. Bring all required documents in one visit — if you are missing any, staff will turn you away and you will need to return. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted.

Documents you must provide

The SSA requires three categories of proof. Proof of citizenship means an original or certified birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship. Proof of identity means a current driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, or military ID. Proof of current address means a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name with your current address.

If your documents are from another country or in a language other than English, bring the original plus an English translation certified by the translator. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a state hospital record of birth. The SSA website lists all acceptable documents for each category. If you are unsure whether your documents may have access to, call your local office before you visit or mail your request.

Getting certified copies of your birth certificate

If you do not have your birth certificate, you will need to order one from your state's vital records office before you can request a replacement card. Each state charges a different fee — typically $15 to $30 for a certified copy. You can order online, by mail, or in person at your state's vital records office, which is usually part of the Department of Health or Vital Statistics.

Find your state's vital records office at the CDC website (cdc.gov/nchs/w2w) or search "[your state] vital records." Processing time ranges from same-day (if you order in person) to 2 to 4 weeks by mail. If you need the card urgently, order your birth certificate in person or by expedited mail, then request your Social Security card once you receive it. Keep a copy of your birth certificate in a safe place after you receive it.

What to do if you have lost your card multiple times

If you have requested more than three replacement cards in a year or more than 10 in your lifetime, the SSA may ask you to visit an office in person and explain why you need another card. This is a fraud prevention measure. Bring your documents and be prepared to discuss the circumstances of your previous lost cards. The SSA may approve your request or may ask you to wait before requesting another replacement.

If you lose your card frequently, consider keeping a photocopy in a safe place separate from your wallet, or storing a photo of your card on your phone. You do not need to carry the physical card — your Social Security number is what matters for employment, banking, and government services. Some people keep their card at home in a find location and only carry the number when needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

Online requests take 7 to 10 business days after approval. Mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks. In-person requests at a Social Security office are processed when ready, and your card is mailed within 7 to 10 business days. Actual delivery time depends on your postal service.

Can I request a replacement card if I have changed my name?

Yes. You will need to provide proof of your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Submit this along with your other documents. The SSA will issue a new card with your current legal name.

What if I do not have a current address or am homeless?

You can use a shelter address, a friend's address, a P.O. box, or a general delivery address at your local post office. Bring a letter from the shelter or a utility bill in someone else's name with a note from that person authorizing you to use their address. Call your local Social Security office to confirm what they will accept.

Do I need to bring my old card if I still have it?

No. You do not need to bring your old card. If you have it, you can destroy it by cutting it in half and throwing it away. If you lost it, you do not need to report it to anyone — just request a replacement.

Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?

No. The SSA mails replacement cards directly to the address on file. You cannot pick it up at an office or have someone else collect it. If you are moving, update your address with the SSA before you request the card, or wait until after you move and request it to your new address.