You can replace a lost Social Security card by mail, in person, or online through the Social Security Administration's iService portal
The fastest route depends on where you live and whether you have the documents ready. Online replacement through iService takes about one week if you have a state ID or driver's license and a phone number on file with Social Security. In-person replacement at your local Social Security office takes one to two weeks and works if you cannot use the online system. Mail replacement takes three to five weeks and requires you to send original documents or certified copies.
You do not need to pay a fee. Social Security does not charge for replacement cards. If someone offers to replace your card for money, that is a scam.
Key Takeaways
- Online replacement through iService is the fastest method if you have a state ID or driver's license and can verify your identity by phone.
- In-person replacement at a Social Security office requires an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, state ID, and proof of current address.
- Mail replacement requires you to complete Form SS-5, gather documents, and send them to your regional Social Security office.
- You can find your local Social Security office and check its hours at ssa.gov/locator or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
- Replacement cards arrive in the mail; you cannot pick one up the same day at any location.
Replace your card online through iService
Go to ssa.gov/iservice and select "Replace my Social Security card." You will need a state-issued ID or driver's license, a phone number Social Security has on file, and a mailing address in the United States. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history or by receiving a one-time code by phone or text.
If the system approves your request, your new card will be mailed to the address you provide within one week. You do not need to visit an office or mail documents. This method works only if you have a current state ID or driver's license and Social Security already has a phone number for you.
Replace your card in person at a Social Security office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a state-issued ID or driver's license, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). Walk in during office hours or call ahead to schedule an appointment. Most offices now require appointments, which you can book at ssa.gov/locator or by phone at 1-800-772-1213.
The office will take your documents, verify your identity, and order your replacement card. You will receive it by mail in one to two weeks. Bring originals if you have them; certified copies work if you do not. Do not send originals by mail unless you are using the mail-in process.
Replace your card by mail
Complete Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), which you can read from ssa.gov or request by phone. Gather an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a state-issued ID or driver's license, and proof of current address. Make copies of everything you are sending.
Mail the completed form and copies to your regional Social Security office. Find the correct address at ssa.gov/locator by entering your zip code. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number. Your replacement card will arrive in three to five weeks. Do not send original documents unless you have certified copies; Social Security will not return them.
What documents you need for each method
| Method | Birth Certificate | State ID or Driver's License | Proof of Address | Form SS-5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online (iService) | No | Yes | No | No |
| In Person | Yes (original or certified copy) | Yes | Yes | No |
| By Mail | Yes (copy) | Yes (copy) | Yes (copy) | Yes |
What to do if you do not have a birth certificate
You can order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. Contact your state's Department of Health or vital records office directly — each state has a different process and fee. You can usually order by mail or online. This step adds two to four weeks to your timeline.
If you cannot get a birth certificate, Social Security may accept other documents such as a passport, adoption papers, or hospital records. Call 1-800-772-1213 and ask what documents your local office will accept before you visit or mail anything.
What to do if you do not have a state ID or driver's license
You must replace your ID first if you want to use the online method. If you want to replace your Social Security card without a state ID, visit your local Social Security office in person. Bring any government-issued ID you have (passport, tribal ID, military ID), your birth certificate, and proof of address. Social Security may accept these instead of a state driver's license.
Call your local office at 1-800-772-1213 before you visit to confirm what documents they will accept. This saves a trip if your ID is not acceptable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
Online replacement takes about one week. In-person replacement takes one to two weeks. Mail replacement takes three to five weeks. These timelines start after Social Security receives and processes your request, not from the day you submit it.
Can I get a replacement card the same day?
No. Social Security does not issue cards on the spot at any office. All replacement cards are mailed to you. The fastest method is online through iService, which takes about one week.
Do I need to report my lost card to anyone besides Social Security?
You do not have to, but you may want to monitor your credit report for fraud. You can check your credit for free at annualcreditreport.com. If you see unauthorized accounts or charges, contact the credit bureau and the company that opened the account.
What if I lost my card and someone else might have it?
Replace your card through one of the three methods above. You can also place a fraud alert on your credit report by contacting one of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion). A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.
Can I replace my card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
You can replace your card if Social Security issued you one. You must have a valid visa or work permit and proof of your immigration status. Bring these documents along with your birth certificate and ID when you visit in person or mail your process.