You get a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration, either in person at a local office or by mail
The Social Security Administration (SSA) is the only government body that issues Social Security cards. You cannot get one from a bank, post office, or third-party service. You have two main routes: visit an SSA office in person, or request one by mail. The in-person route is faster if you have all required documents ready. The mail route takes longer but works if you cannot reach an office or prefer not to travel.
You will need to prove your identity, citizenship or legal status, and age. The specific documents depend on which route you choose and what you have on hand. Processing time ranges from one to two weeks by mail, or sometimes the same day at an office if you arrive early and the office is not busy.
Key Takeaways
- Visit your local Social Security office in person for the fastest replacement, or request one by mail if travel is not possible.
- You must bring an original or certified copy of a document proving your identity, such as a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate.
- You need proof of citizenship or legal immigration status, which can be a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or immigration document.
- The SSA website has a field office locator tool where you can find the office nearest you and check its hours before you go.
- You can request a replacement card by mail using Form SS-5, which you read from the SSA website or request by phone.
Visiting a Social Security Office in Person
Walking into your local Social Security office is usually the fastest way to get a replacement card. Bring your completed Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), though you can also fill it out at the office. Bring original documents or certified copies — a driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, or birth certificate all work for identity proof. You also need proof of citizenship or legal status.
Arrive early in the day if possible. Many offices issue cards on the spot or within a few days. Call ahead or check the office's hours on the SSA website locator tool, because hours vary by location and some offices have reduced schedules. Bring your Social Security number if you know it, though the office can look it up if you do not.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen card, tell the office staff. They may flag your account to watch for fraud. If your card was damaged, bring the damaged card with you.
Requesting a Card by Mail
read Form SS-5 from the SSA website (ssa.gov) or call 1-800-772-1213 to request one by phone. Fill out the form completely and include copies of your identity document and citizenship proof. Do not send original documents — always send copies. Mail the form and documents to the address listed on the form itself, which varies by state.
Processing takes one to three weeks from the date the SSA receives your envelope. You will receive your new card by mail at the address you provided on the form. Keep a record of when you mailed it so you know when to expect it. If you do not receive it within three weeks, call the SSA to check the status.
The mail route works well if you cannot take time off work, live far from an office, or prefer not to travel. It also works if you need the card but are not in a rush — for example, if you are replacing one you lost at home rather than one you need when ready for a job.
Documents You Need to Bring or Send
| What You Need | Acceptable Documents |
|---|---|
| Identity proof | Driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, birth certificate, adoption decree, or court order |
| Citizenship or legal status proof | U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, permanent resident card, employment authorization document, or visa |
| Age proof (if identity document does not show birth date) | Birth certificate, baptism record, or court order |
Documents must be originals or certified copies. A photocopy you made yourself is not acceptable. If you are mailing documents, send copies, not originals — the SSA will not return them. If you are visiting in person, bring originals so the office can verify them and return them to you.
If your documents are in a language other than English, bring the original and an English translation certified by the translator. The SSA will not accept a translation you did yourself.
Finding Your Local Social Security Office
Use the SSA's field office locator at ssa.gov/locator. Enter your city and state or zip code, and the tool shows all nearby offices with their hours and phone numbers. Some offices are appointment-only, while others take walk-ins. Call before you go to confirm hours and ask whether you need an appointment.
If you live in a rural area far from an office, you can request a card by mail instead. Some SSA offices also partner with local libraries or community centers to accept applications on certain days — ask when you call.
What Happens If You Cannot Provide All Documents
If you do not have an original identity document or citizenship proof, the SSA may still work with you. Bring whatever documents you do have and explain what you are missing. The office can sometimes accept alternative documents — for example, a school ID plus a utility bill, or a hospital record plus a library card. The office staff will tell you what else they need.
If you were born outside the United States and do not have a passport or naturalization certificate, bring your permanent resident card or employment authorization document. If you have none of these, ask the office what other documents prove your status. Do not assume you cannot get a card — the SSA has flexibility for people in difficult situations.
Replacing a Card That Was Lost, Stolen, or Damaged
The process is the same whether your card is lost, stolen, or damaged. If it was stolen, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to protect yourself. You can do this for free by calling one bureau, and they will notify the other two.
Tell the SSA office or include a note with your mailed form explaining what happened. The SSA may flag your account to watch for misuse. If someone has already used your number fraudulently, the SSA can help you report it, but you may also need to contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?
There is no fee. The SSA issues replacement cards at no cost. If someone offers to get you a card for money, they are running a scam. Only the SSA issues legitimate Social Security cards.
Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?
If you request a card by mail, it goes to the address you provide. If you visit an office in person, you must be there to receive it — the office will not give it to someone else. If you cannot pick it up yourself, ask the office whether they can mail it to you instead.
What if I do not know my Social Security number?
The SSA can look it up for you using your name, date of birth, and other identifying information. Bring documents proving your identity and the office will find your number. If you are requesting by mail, call 1-800-772-1213 and ask them to look it up before you send your form.
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
In person, you may get it the same day or within a few days. By mail, expect one to three weeks from the date the SSA receives your form. If you need the card urgently, visiting an office in person is your fastest option.
Can I get a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have legal immigration status. You need a permanent resident card, employment authorization document, visa, or similar proof. Bring this document along with your identity proof and the SSA will issue a replacement card.