What Form SS-5 Is and When You Need It

Form SS-5 is the official application the Social Security Administration uses to issue, replace, or correct a Social Security card. You file it in person at a Social Security office, not by mail or online. You need it if you're applying for your first card, replacing a lost or stolen card, changing the name on your card, or correcting information the SSA has on file.

The form itself is straightforward — it's a single page with sections for your personal information, citizenship status, and the reason for your application. But the documents you bring matter more than the form. The SSA will not process your application without proof of identity, age, and citizenship or lawful residency, and those requirements differ depending on your situation.

Key Takeaways

  • Form SS-5 must be completed in person at a Social Security office; you cannot submit it by mail or through an online portal.
  • You will need to bring original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, date of birth, and citizenship or immigration status — not just the form.
  • If you're under 18 and applying for your first card, a parent or guardian must appear with you and bring their own identity documents.
  • Processing typically takes one to two weeks; the SSA will mail your card to the address you provide on the form.
  • You can download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov before your appointment, but you can also fill it out at the office if you arrive without it.

Documents You Must Bring to Your Appointment

The SSA requires three categories of proof: identity, age, and citizenship or lawful residency. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. A birth certificate, passport, or baptism record works for age. For citizenship, a U.S. passport or birth certificate issued in the United States is the strongest proof; if you were born outside the U.S., you'll need a passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card.

If you don't have the documents listed above, the SSA maintains a longer list of acceptable alternatives on its website. Bring whatever original documents you have — photocopies are not accepted. If a document is not in English, bring the original and a certified English translation. Do not rely on the SSA office to have copies of documents or to accept digital photos on your phone.

If you're applying on behalf of a minor, both the child and the parent or legal guardian must be present. The parent or guardian must bring their own identity documents as well. If only one parent has custody, bring the custody order or court decree.

How to Complete Form SS-5

You can download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov and fill it out before your appointment, or you can complete it at the Social Security office. The form asks for your full legal name, date of birth, place of birth, mother's maiden name, father's name, current address, phone number, and email if you have one. It also asks whether you are a U.S. citizen, a permanent resident, or in the country on a visa.

Near the bottom, you'll select the reason for your application: first card, replacement, name change, or correction. If you're replacing a card, indicate whether it was lost, stolen, or damaged. If you're correcting information, describe what needs to be changed. Sign and date the form in the spaces provided — do not sign it before you arrive at the office, as the SSA may require you to sign it in front of the representative.

Print clearly or type the form. Handwriting that is hard to read can slow processing. If you make a mistake, cross it out neatly and initial the change; do not use white-out or correction tape.

Finding Your Local Social Security Office and Scheduling an Appointment

You can locate your nearest Social Security office using the office locator tool on ssa.gov. Enter your zip code and the tool will show you nearby locations, hours, and phone numbers. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require appointments. Call ahead or check the office's page on ssa.gov to see whether you need to schedule.

If you schedule an appointment, you can do so online through ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at the office. Online scheduling is usually the fastest. When you book, have your Social Security number ready if you already have one, or be prepared to provide your name and date of birth. The SSA will give you a date, time, and confirmation number.

Bring your confirmation number and all required documents to your appointment. Arrive a few minutes early. The wait time varies by office and time of day; calling ahead can give you a sense of how busy the office typically is.

What Happens After You Submit Your Application

Once you submit Form SS-5 and your documents, the SSA representative will review everything on the spot. If something is missing or unclear, they will tell you immediately and may ask you to provide additional information or return with different documents. If everything is in order, they will take your application and documents and give you a receipt.

Processing usually takes one to two weeks. The SSA will mail your new or replacement card to the address you provided on the form. You do not need to do anything else while you wait. If you don't receive your card within three weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.

If the SSA needs more information before they can issue your card, they will mail you a letter explaining what they need. Respond promptly with the requested documents to avoid delays.

Special Situations: Name Changes, Corrections, and Replacements

If you're changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will update their records and issue a new card with your new name. The process is the same as a first application, and processing time is similar.

If you're correcting information on file — such as a misspelled name, wrong date of birth, or incorrect citizenship status — bring documents that support the correction. For example, if your birth date is wrong, bring your birth certificate. The SSA will investigate the discrepancy and may contact you if they need clarification. Corrections sometimes take longer than replacements because the SSA verifies the information with other agencies.

If your card was lost or stolen, you can report it to the SSA when you apply for a replacement. The SSA does not cancel old cards, but issuing a new one with a new number is an option if you're concerned about identity theft. Ask the representative about this when you file your application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mail Form SS-5 instead of going to the office in person?

No. The SSA requires you to submit Form SS-5 in person at a Social Security office. You cannot mail it or submit it online. The office representative must verify your identity and documents before accepting your application.

What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?

The SSA maintains a list of alternative documents that prove age and citizenship, including baptism records, hospital records, school records, and insurance policies. Visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to see which documents you can bring instead. Bring whatever original documents you have that show your name, date of birth, and place of birth.

How long does it take to get my card after I submit the form?

The SSA typically mails your card within one to two weeks of your appointment. If you don't receive it within three weeks, contact the SSA to check the status. Processing can take longer if the SSA needs to verify information with other agencies or if you're correcting an error on file.

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

It depends on your local office. Some offices accept walk-ins during certain hours, while others require appointments. Check ssa.gov or call your local office to find out their policy. Scheduling an appointment online is usually faster and guarantees you a time slot.

What if I'm applying for a child's first Social Security card?

Both the child and at least one parent or legal guardian must appear in person. Bring the child's birth certificate and the parent's or guardian's identity documents. If only one parent has custody, bring the custody order or court decree. The process is otherwise the same as for an adult.