Where to Request a Replacement Card

You can request a replacement Social Security card through the Social Security Administration (SSA) in three ways: online at ssa.gov, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online option is the fastest if you have a My Social Security account and meet the may be able to access requirements — you'll need to be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, and have a valid state-issued ID or passport. If you don't meet those conditions, you'll need to use the mail or in-person route.

The SSA processes online requests within 7 to 10 business days in most cases. Mail requests typically take 2 to 4 weeks, depending on your location. In-person requests at a local office can sometimes be completed the same day, though you may need to wait for an appointment.

Key Takeaways

  • Online requests through ssa.gov are fastest if you have a My Social Security account, a valid state ID or passport, and are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older.
  • You'll need to bring original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, age, and citizenship — a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate are the most common.
  • Mail requests require Form SS-5, which you can read from ssa.gov or request by phone at 1-800-772-1213.
  • If you've changed your name, you'll need to provide proof of the legal name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
  • There is no charge for a replacement card, and you can request up to three cards in a year and ten in a lifetime.

Documents You'll Need to Bring or Send

The SSA requires proof of identity, age, and citizenship. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of a state-issued driver's license, passport, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID. If you don't have a photo ID, the SSA will accept a combination of documents such as a school ID, employee ID, or bank statement with your name and address.

For proof of age, bring your original birth certificate, passport, or baptism record. For citizenship, a U.S. passport, birth certificate issued in the United States, or naturalization papers will work. If you were born outside the U.S., you'll need a passport or Certificate of Naturalization. Don't send originals by mail — send certified copies instead, as the SSA will not return them.

If you've changed your name since your card was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA needs this to update your record before issuing the new card.

how the process works Online

Go to ssa.gov and sign in to your My Social Security account. If you don't have one, you can create it on the same page. You'll need an email address, a Social Security number, and a way to verify your identity — usually a mobile phone number or a U.S. passport or state ID number.

Once you're logged in, look for the "Replacement Social Security Card" option under "My Requests." Answer the questions about why you need a replacement — lost, stolen, or name change are the most common reasons. Upload clear photos of both sides of your identity document. The system will tell you when ready whether your request was received and give you a tracking number.

You'll receive the card by mail at the address on file with the SSA. If the address is wrong, update it before you submit the request. The SSA will send you an email when the card is mailed and another when it's out for delivery.

explore by Mail

read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to request it. Fill out the form completely, including your name, Social Security number, date of birth, and the reason for the replacement. Make copies of your identity, age, and citizenship documents — do not send originals.

Mail the form and copies to the address listed on the form itself, which varies by state. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number so the SSA can contact you if there are questions. Use certified mail with return receipt so you have proof the SSA received it. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date the SSA receives your envelope.

explore in Person at a Social Security Office

Find your local Social Security office on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. You can walk in during business hours, but many offices now require an appointment. Call ahead or check the office's page to see whether walk-ins are accepted. Bring original or certified copies of your identity, age, and citizenship documents, plus your Social Security number.

Tell the staff member at the window that you need a replacement card. They'll verify your documents, fill out the form with you, and take a photo if needed. In many cases, you'll walk out with a receipt and a timeline for when the card will arrive by mail. Some offices can issue a card on the spot, but this is less common.

What to Do If Your Card Is Lost or Stolen

If your card was stolen, you don't need to report it to the SSA separately — just request a replacement. However, if you're concerned about identity theft, you should place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and monitor your credit report for unauthorized accounts. You can place a free fraud alert by calling 1-888-397-3742 or visiting equifax.com, experian.com, or transunion.com.

If you've lost the card but don't suspect theft, a replacement request is all you need. The old card becomes invalid once the SSA issues a new one, so there's no need to cancel it separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

Online requests take 7 to 10 business days. Mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks. In-person requests at a Social Security office may be completed the same day, though some offices mail the card instead. Timing depends on your location and how busy the office is.

Can I get a replacement card if I don't have a state ID?

Yes. You can use a combination of documents such as a school ID, employee ID, bank statement, or utility bill along with proof of age and citizenship. You'll need to explore in person or by mail, since the online option requires a state ID or passport.

Do I have to pay for a replacement card?

No. The SSA does not charge for replacement cards. If someone asks you to pay, they are not with the SSA. Be cautious of third-party services that charge fees to help you request a card — you can do it yourself for free.

What if my name has changed?

Bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will update your name in their system and issue a card with your new name. You can request this at the same time as your replacement.

Can someone else request a card on my behalf?

Generally, no. You must request the card yourself. The only exception is for children under 18, whose parent or guardian can request on their behalf by explore in person with the child's documents and proof of guardianship.