You can get a replacement card from your local Social Security office, by mail, or online if you meet certain conditions
The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers three main routes to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged card. The fastest is usually online through ssa.gov if you have a driver's license or state ID, are at least 18 years old, and a U.S. citizen. If you cannot use the online option, you can visit a Social Security office in person or request a replacement by mail. Each route has different wait times and document requirements.
You do not need to pay for a replacement card — the SSA issues them free. The card itself arrives in the mail within 7 to 10 business days after your request is processed, though processing time varies by method.
Key Takeaways
- The online replacement option at ssa.gov is the fastest route if you have a current driver's license or state ID and are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older.
- In-person visits to a Social Security office require proof of citizenship, identity, and age — typically a birth certificate and photo ID — and you can walk in without an appointment at most locations.
- Mail-in requests take longer but work if you cannot visit an office or use the online system; you send documents to your local SSA office and receive the card by mail.
- If your card was stolen, you should report it to the SSA when you request a replacement, though this does not affect your Social Security number itself.
explore online through the Social Security website
The SSA's online replacement tool at ssa.gov is available 24 hours a day and is the quickest method if you meet the requirements. You must have a valid driver's license or state ID issued by your state's motor vehicle department, be at least 18 years old, have a U.S. mailing address, and be a U.S. citizen. You will also need to verify your identity using the system's security questions, which pull from your credit history and other records.
The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Once approved, your replacement card is mailed to the address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a confirmation number when ready after you submit your request, which you can use to track your card's status on the SSA website.
If the online system cannot verify your identity — which can happen if you have limited credit history or have recently moved — you will be directed to complete your request in person or by mail instead.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
You can walk into any Social Security office without an appointment and request a replacement card. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though some have extended hours. You can find your local office by entering your zip code at ssa.gov/locator.
Bring proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), proof of identity (a driver's license, passport, or state ID), and proof of age if your identity document does not show your date of birth. If you do not have these documents, the SSA office staff can tell you what alternatives they will accept — for example, a school record or medical record may work as proof of age.
Processing time at the office is usually 10 to 15 minutes. Your replacement card will be mailed to you and arrive within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a receipt showing your process was submitted.
Requesting a replacement by mail
If you cannot visit an office or use the online system, you can request a replacement card by mail. read and complete Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, then mail it along with copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. Do not send original documents — always send copies, as the SSA will not return them.
You will need copies of proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers) and proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID). If your identity document does not show your age, include a separate document that does, such as a school record or medical record.
Mail your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form for your state. Processing by mail takes longer than in-person or online requests — typically 3 to 4 weeks from the date the SSA receives your envelope. Your replacement card will be mailed to the address you provide on the form.
What to do if your card was stolen
If your card was stolen rather than lost or damaged, you can still request a replacement using any of the three methods above. When you explore, mention that the card was stolen so the SSA has a record of it. This does not change your Social Security number and does not affect your account.
Reporting a stolen card to the SSA is different from reporting identity theft. If you believe someone has used your Social Security number fraudulently, you should also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov and consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).
Documents you will need for each method
| Method | Documents Needed | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Valid driver's license or state ID; no physical documents required | 7–10 business days |
| In Person | Proof of citizenship, proof of identity, proof of age (if needed) | 7–10 business days |
| By Mail | Copies of proof of citizenship, proof of identity, proof of age (if needed); completed Form SS-5 | 3–4 weeks |
What happens after you submit your request
Once your request is processed, the SSA will mail your replacement card to the address you provided. You do not need to do anything else — the card will arrive on its own. If you applied online or in person, you can check the status of your card by logging into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov or by calling the SSA's toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213.
If your card does not arrive within 10 business days of your online or in-person request, or within 4 weeks of your mail request, contact your local Social Security office. They can investigate the delay and reissue the card if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
The online option is only for U.S. citizens. If you are not a citizen but have a valid Social Security number, you can still request a replacement in person at a Social Security office or by mail. Bring your passport or visa along with the other required documents.
Do I need to bring my original Social Security card to the office?
No. If your card is lost or stolen, you do not have it to bring. If you have it and it is damaged, bringing it can speed up the process, but it is not required. The SSA can look up your account by your name and date of birth.
How much does a replacement card cost?
Replacement cards are free. The SSA does not charge a fee for lost, stolen, or damaged cards, or for any other reason. If someone offers to charge you for a replacement card, they are not legitimate.
Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?
No. The SSA mails replacement cards directly to the address you provide on your request. You cannot have someone else pick it up in person. If you need the card quickly and cannot wait for mail delivery, explore in person at a Social Security office and ask about expedited processing options.
What if I changed my name since my last card was issued?
You can still request a replacement using any of the three methods. If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a copy of the document that shows the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your other documents. The SSA will issue a card with your current legal name.