The fastest way to order a replacement card

You can order a replacement Social Security card online through the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website at ssa.gov, which takes about 5 to 10 minutes and requires no documents to upload. The card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. This online method works if you were born in the United States, have a current state-issued ID or passport, and are at least 18 years old.

If you cannot use the online method—because you were born outside the US, are under 18, or do not have a current ID—you will need to visit a Social Security office in person with documents. A local office visit typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, and your replacement card arrives in the same 7 to 10 business day window.

You cannot order a card by phone or mail. The SSA does not accept applications through the mail, and calling their main number (1-800-772-1213) will direct you to the online portal or a local office.

Key Takeaways

  • The online method at ssa.gov is fastest and requires only a current state ID or passport and a few minutes of your time.
  • Your replacement card arrives in 7 to 10 business days whether you order online or in person.
  • If you were born outside the United States, are under 18, or lack a current ID, you must visit a Social Security office with original or certified documents.
  • You will need to prove your identity, citizenship or lawful residency, and age—the exact documents depend on where you were born.
  • There is no fee to order a replacement card, and the SSA does not accept mail-in or phone orders.

Ordering online: what you need and the step-by-step process

Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and select "Create an account" if you do not already have one. You will enter your name, date of birth, email address, and Social Security number. The SSA will ask you security questions based on your credit history to verify your identity—these are questions only you should know the answers to, like details from old loans or credit accounts.

Once your account is created and verified, log in and select "Order a replacement Social Security card." You will confirm your mailing address (the card goes to the address on file), choose standard mail delivery, and review your request. Submit the form. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email.

Your card will arrive at the address you provided in 7 to 10 business days. If you move before it arrives, do not open a mail forwarding request—contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to update your address before the card ships.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator. You can walk in during business hours (typically 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday) or schedule an appointment online or by phone at 1-800-772-1213. Walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-served basis; appointments usually have shorter wait times.

Bring one document to prove your identity (a current driver's license, passport, or state ID) and one document to prove your age and citizenship or lawful residency. If you were born in the United States, a birth certificate or passport works. If you were born outside the US, bring your passport, visa, or permanent resident card. The SSA staff will review your documents, take your photo, and submit your request on the spot.

You will receive a receipt with a confirmation number. Your replacement card arrives in 7 to 10 business days at the address you provided.

What documents you need if you were born outside the United States

If you were born outside the US, the SSA requires proof of lawful residency or citizenship in addition to your identity and age documents. Acceptable documents include a valid U.S. passport, a permanent resident card (green card), a visa, an employment authorization document (EAD), or a refugee travel document.

You must bring the original document or a certified copy—a photocopy will not be accepted. If your document is in a language other than English, bring the original and an official English translation certified by a translator or the issuing country's embassy or consulate.

If you do not have one of these documents, contact your local Social Security office before visiting to ask what alternatives they may accept in your situation.

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged

The process is the same whether your card is lost, stolen, or damaged. You do not need to report the loss to the SSA separately—straightforward order a replacement through the online portal or at a local office. If your card was stolen and you are concerned about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by calling 1-888-397-3742.

You can order up to three replacement cards in a year and up to ten in a lifetime. If you exceed these limits, the SSA will ask you to visit an office in person and explain why you need additional cards.

Tracking your replacement card and what to do if it does not arrive

The SSA does not send tracking numbers for replacement cards. You can check the status of your order by logging into your ssa.gov account and selecting "Order a replacement Social Security card" again—the system will show whether your card has been mailed.

If your card does not arrive within 10 business days, wait a few more days before contacting the SSA, as mail delivery times vary by location. If it has been more than two weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office with your confirmation number. The SSA can reissue the card or investigate whether it was lost in the mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a replacement card if I have a name change?

Yes. If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you can order a replacement card with your new name. You will need to bring your original or certified name-change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your identity and age documents to a Social Security office. You cannot do this online; you must visit in person.

What if I do not have a current state ID or passport for the online method?

You will need to visit a Social Security office in person. Bring any document that proves your identity, such as an expired passport, a school ID, a work ID, a bank statement, or a utility bill with your name and address. The SSA staff will determine whether your documents are acceptable.

Do I need to bring my Social Security number with me to the office?

No. You will provide your Social Security number when you fill out the process form at the office, or it is already in the system if you have an ssa.gov account. Bring your identity and age documents instead.

Can someone else order a replacement card for me?

No. You must order the card yourself, either online or in person. A parent or guardian can order a card for a child under 18 by visiting an office with the child's birth certificate and proof of the parent's identity and relationship to the child.

Is there a fee to order a replacement card?

No. The SSA does not charge a fee for replacement cards. Be cautious of third-party websites that claim to speed up the process for a fee—they are not affiliated with the SSA and are not necessary.