Where to Request Your Replacement Card
You can request a replacement Social Security card in three ways: online through the Social Security Administration's website, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online option is the fastest if you are may be able to access — it takes about 7 to 10 business days. Mail requests typically take 2 to 4 weeks, and in-person visits at an office can sometimes be processed the same day, though wait times vary by location.
Not everyone can use the online method. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid state-issued ID or passport, and have a U.S. mailing address. If you do not meet these requirements, you will need to use the mail or in-person route instead.
Key Takeaways
- The Social Security Administration's online portal at ssa.gov/myaccount is the fastest way to request a replacement card if you have a valid state ID and a U.S. address.
- You will need to verify your identity using a state-issued driver's license, passport, or state ID card before you can submit an online request.
- If you cannot use the online method, you can mail Form SS-5 to your local Social Security office or visit in person with original documents.
- Original or certified documents proving your age, identity, and citizenship are required for all replacement card requests.
- Replacement cards are free; the Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for this service.
explore Online Through Your Social Security Account
Start by visiting ssa.gov/myaccount and signing in or creating an account if you do not have one. You will need an email address and a phone number. The site will walk you through identity verification using your state ID, passport, or state-issued ID card — you will photograph both the front and back of your document using your phone or computer camera.
Once your identity is verified, select "Replacement Social Security Card" from the menu. You will be asked to confirm your personal information and choose how you want to receive your card — standard mail or expedited delivery (expedited costs extra). Review your request, submit it, and you will receive a confirmation number. Your card will arrive at the address on file within 7 to 10 business days for standard delivery.
If the online system cannot verify your identity — for example, if your state ID is expired or damaged — you will be directed to use the mail or in-person method instead. This is not a rejection; it straightforward means you need to provide original documents in person or by mail.
Requesting by Mail Using Form SS-5
read Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov or request a copy by calling 1-800-772-1213. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. You do not need to sign the form before mailing it — the Social Security Administration will ask you to sign it when they receive it, or you can sign it in front of a witness before mailing.
Gather original or certified copies of documents proving your age, identity, and citizenship. For age, you can use a birth certificate, passport, or religious record. For identity, use a driver's license, passport, state ID, or employee ID. For citizenship, use a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers. Do not mail original documents unless absolutely necessary — instead, bring certified copies made by the issuing agency or a notary.
Mail Form SS-5 and your documents to your local Social Security office. Find the correct address by entering your zip code at ssa.gov/locator. Include a return envelope with postage. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date the office receives your request. You can track the status of your request by calling 1-800-772-1213 after two weeks.
explore in Person at a Social Security Office
Locate your nearest Social Security office using the office locator at ssa.gov/locator. You can walk in during business hours, though some offices now require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone first. Call 1-800-772-1213 to check your local office's current policy.
Bring original or certified copies of documents proving your age, identity, and citizenship — the same documents listed in the mail section above. Bring your Social Security card if you still have it, or a document with your Social Security number on it. If you are explore on behalf of someone else, bring proof of your relationship to that person and your own ID.
A staff member will review your documents, ask you to sign Form SS-5, and take your photograph. In some cases, your replacement card can be issued the same day. If additional verification is needed, the office will mail your card within 2 to 4 weeks.
Documents You Need to Bring
The Social Security Administration requires proof of three things: your age, your identity, and your citizenship or immigration status. You must bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.
| What to Prove | Acceptable Documents |
|---|---|
| Age | Birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, or religious record made before age 5 |
| Identity | Driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or employee ID with photo |
| Citizenship or immigration status | U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, green card, or employment authorization document |
If you do not have an original document, you can request a certified copy from the issuing agency — for example, the vital records office in the state where you were born can issue a certified birth certificate. This process takes 1 to 3 weeks depending on the state. A notary can also certify a copy of a document you already have.
What Happens After You Submit Your Request
After you submit your request online, by mail, or in person, the Social Security Administration will verify your information against their records. This usually takes a few days. If there are no issues, your card will be printed and mailed to the address on file.
If the Social Security Administration cannot verify your information or has questions about your documents, they will contact you by phone or mail. This can delay your card by a week or more. If you provided a phone number, they may call you directly. If you provided an email address, they may send you a message asking you to visit an office in person.
Once your card is mailed, you can track its delivery using the confirmation number you received when you submitted your request. Call 1-800-772-1213 and provide your confirmation number, or check your online account if you requested the card through ssa.gov/myaccount.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not mail original documents unless you have no other choice. Certified copies are safer and faster — if an original is lost in the mail, replacing it takes months. Request certified copies from the issuing agency before you mail anything to the Social Security Administration.
Do not assume your online request was successful just because you received a confirmation number. Check your email and the Social Security Administration's website for updates. If you do not hear back within 10 business days, call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm your request was received.
Do not use a P.O. box as your mailing address if you are requesting by mail. The Social Security Administration will not mail cards to P.O. boxes. Use your street address instead. If you do not have a permanent address, ask the Social Security Administration about alternative options when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?
There is no cost. The Social Security Administration does not charge a fee for replacement cards. If a website or service claims to charge you for a replacement card, it is not an official Social Security service.
Can I get a replacement card if my name has changed?
Yes. Bring a certified copy of the document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Social Security Administration will update your name in their records and issue a new card with your current name.
What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have my number memorized?
You can find your Social Security number on tax documents, W-2 forms, bank statements, or previous Social Security correspondence. If you cannot locate it, call 1-800-772-1213 and a representative can help you. You will need to answer security questions to verify your identity.
How long does it take to get a replacement card by mail?
Standard mail delivery takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date the Social Security Administration receives your request. Processing time varies by office location and current volume. You can check the status of your request by calling 1-800-772-1213 after two weeks.
Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?
If you requested your card by mail, it will be delivered to your address — no one needs to pick it up. If you requested it in person and want someone else to collect it, ask the Social Security office staff about their policy. Some offices allow this with written authorization; others do not.