You can order a replacement Social Security card by phone, but only in limited situations

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not take Social Security card orders by phone. You cannot call and request a replacement card to be mailed to you. However, you can call SSA to find out whether you are may be able to access for a replacement, to ask what documents you need to bring, and to schedule an in-person appointment at your local Social Security office — where you will then complete the actual request.

If you have lost your card, it has been stolen, or the name on it no longer matches your legal name, you are may have access to to one free replacement card in your lifetime. After that, replacements cost money. The phone call is the first step, not the whole process.

Key Takeaways

  • Call the SSA's main number (1-800-772-1213) to confirm you are may be able to access for a free replacement and to learn what documents to bring.
  • You must visit a Social Security office in person to request a replacement card — the phone call only schedules the appointment or answers questions beforehand.
  • Bring proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), proof of identity (driver's license or state ID), and proof of age if your identity document does not show it.
  • Processing takes about two weeks after you submit your request in person, though it can be faster in some locations.
  • You get one free replacement card in your lifetime; additional replacements cost $25 each and require a visit to the office.

What you need before you call

Gather your information before dialing. Have your Social Security number ready, your current legal name, and the address where you want the card mailed. If your name has changed since your last card was issued — through marriage, divorce, court order, or other legal change — have documentation of that change available to describe to the representative.

If your card was stolen, you do not need a police report to order a replacement, but having one can help if you later discover fraud. If someone else is using your number, call the SSA and ask about an Identity Theft Report, which is separate from ordering a new card.

How to reach the Social Security Administration by phone

Call 1-800-772-1213, the main SSA customer service line. This number works Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time. Wait times are often shorter early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Tell the representative you need a replacement Social Security card. They will ask you questions to verify your identity — expect to answer about your work history, previous addresses, or family members. This is standard security screening. The representative will then tell you what documents to bring and help you schedule an appointment at your nearest Social Security office, or they will tell you that you can walk in without an appointment (policies vary by location).

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call the TTY number 1-800-325-0778. If you speak a language other than English, interpreters are available on the main line.

Documents you will need to bring to the office

The SSA requires proof of three things: citizenship, identity, and age. You do not need all three documents if one document covers more than one category.

For proof of citizenship, bring your U.S. passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship. A state-issued birth certificate is acceptable; a hospital birth certificate is not.

For proof of identity, bring a current driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. The document must have your photo and signature. If you do not have a photo ID, bring two documents that together show your name and address — a utility bill and a lease, for example.

For proof of age, bring a birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued document showing your date of birth. If your identity document already shows your age, you do not need a separate age document.

Bring originals or certified copies. The SSA will not accept photocopies or notarized copies of birth certificates. If your documents are in another language, bring the original and an official English translation.

What happens at your in-person appointment

At the Social Security office, you will fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card). The representative will review your documents, take your information, and submit your request. You do not need to bring the form with you — the office has copies.

You will be asked to sign the form in front of the representative. If you cannot sign your name, you can make a mark, and a witness must sign the form as well.

After you submit the form, the SSA mails your new card to the address you provided. Standard processing takes about two weeks. Some offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, though this is not available everywhere. Ask the representative whether your location offers it.

If you need your card before the appointment

If you need proof that you have applied for a replacement card — for example, to show an employer or bank — ask the Social Security office for a letter stating that you have submitted an application. This letter can sometimes be issued the same day.

You cannot use a letter in place of an actual card for most purposes, but it may help you explain the delay to an employer or financial institution while you wait for the card to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order a replacement card online instead of calling?

The SSA does not offer online card replacement. You must call to schedule an appointment or ask questions, then visit the office in person. However, you can create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov to view your Social Security Statement and check your earnings record — this does not replace your card but may be useful for other purposes.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a passport, naturalization certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship instead. If you have none of these, contact your state's vital records office to request a certified birth certificate before you call the SSA. The Social Security office cannot issue a card without proof of citizenship.

Do I have to pay for a replacement card?

Your first replacement is free. If you need a second or additional replacement card, the cost is $25 per card. You must pay at the Social Security office when you submit your request.

How long does it take to get the card in the mail?

Standard processing takes about two weeks from the date you submit your application at the office. Some locations offer faster service for a fee. Ask the representative at your appointment whether expedited processing is available in your area.

What if I moved and my address changed since I last visited the Social Security office?

Tell the representative your current address when you call or visit. The new card will be mailed to the address you provide. You do not need to update your address separately before ordering the card.