What you need to do to get a Social Security card

You need to fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card), gather proof documents, and submit them in person at your local Social Security office. The Social Security Administration does not issue cards by mail or online — you must appear in person with original or certified documents. Processing takes about two weeks after you submit everything, though it can take longer if the office needs to verify your information.

The exact documents you need depend on whether you are applying for your first card, replacing a lost one, or changing the name on an existing card. U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status requires different proof than temporary work authorization. Knowing what category you fall into before you go saves a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must apply in person at a Social Security office with Form SS-5 and original proof documents — there is no online or mail option.
  • First-time applicants need proof of age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status; the exact documents vary by category.
  • Processing takes about two weeks, though verification can add time if the office flags inconsistencies in your documents.
  • You can find your local office and check current wait times on the Social Security Administration website before you go.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted for most documents.

Proof documents for a first-time card

You need three types of proof: age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status. For age, the Social Security Administration accepts a birth certificate, passport, or state ID. The document must be an original or certified copy — a photocopy will not work.

For identity, you need a government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID. If you do not have one, you can use a school ID, employee ID, or medical record with your name and identifying information. The office will tell you at the counter whether what you brought is acceptable.

For citizenship or immigration status, U.S. citizens bring a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. Lawful permanent residents bring their green card (Permanent Resident Card). People with temporary work authorization bring their Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or visa. Refugees and asylees bring their refugee travel document or asylum approval notice. If you are not sure which category you fall into, call your local Social Security office before you go — they can tell you exactly what to bring.

Replacing a lost or stolen card

If your card is lost or stolen, you still need Form SS-5 and proof of identity and age, but you do not need to prove citizenship again. Bring a government-issued photo ID and a birth certificate or passport. The office will issue a replacement with the same number.

If your card was stolen and you suspect fraud, report it to the Social Security Administration's fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 before you go to the office. They can flag your account and monitor it for misuse. Bring documentation of the theft if you have it — a police report or identity theft report from the Federal Trade Commission.

Changing your name on a Social Security card

You need Form SS-5, proof of your new legal name, and proof of identity. Legal name changes happen through marriage, divorce, court order, or other legal process. Bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your current Social Security card and a government-issued photo ID.

The Social Security Administration will not issue a new card with a different name without legal documentation. A marriage certificate must be an original or certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were married. If you lost the original, you can order a certified copy from that office before you apply.

What happens after you submit your application

The Social Security office will review your documents at the counter. If everything is in order, they will take your application and tell you when to expect your card. Most cards arrive within two weeks. You will receive it by mail at the address you provided on the form.

If the office finds a problem — a document is not acceptable, information does not match, or they need to verify something — they will contact you. This can add weeks to the process. Keep your application receipt, which has a case number you can use to check the status of your application online or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

You do not need to do anything while you wait. Do not call the office to check on your application unless more than three weeks have passed since you submitted it.

Finding your local Social Security office

The Social Security Administration website has an office locator tool where you can enter your zip code and see the nearest office, its hours, and current wait times. Many offices are now taking appointments instead of walk-ins, so check whether you need to schedule ahead before you go.

Call ahead if you are unsure whether you have the right documents. The office staff can tell you exactly what to bring based on your situation. The main Social Security phone line is 1-800-772-1213, and you can also reach your local office directly through the office locator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else pick up my Social Security card for me?

No. You must pick it up yourself or authorize someone in writing using Form SSA-3288. That person will need to show a government-issued photo ID and your authorization letter. The card is mailed to you by default, so you only need to pick it up in person if you requested it that way.

What if I 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. This usually takes one to two weeks. If you cannot get a birth certificate, ask the Social Security office what other documents they will accept — they may take a passport, baptism record, or school record instead.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

It depends on your local office. Check the Social Security Administration website or call ahead to see whether appointments are required. Many offices now require them to manage wait times. If appointments are full, ask about the walk-in window or whether you can schedule for a later date.

How long does it take to get a Social Security card?

Most cards arrive within two weeks of submitting your application. If the office needs to verify information or if documents are incomplete, it can take longer — sometimes four to six weeks. You can check the status using your application receipt number on the Social Security website or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

What if my name does not match between my documents?

Tell the office staff before you submit your application. Small differences like a middle initial or nickname may not be a problem, but significant differences require explanation. If you legally changed your name and have the court order or marriage certificate, bring that to show the connection between the names.