Where to request a replacement card
You can request a replacement Social Security card in three ways: in person at your local Social Security office, by mail using Form SS-5, or online through ssa.gov if you meet certain requirements. The online option is fastest — you can submit your request without leaving home — but it is only available if you are a U.S. citizen aged 18 or older with a valid state-issued ID and a Social Security number already on file.
If you cannot use the online portal, visiting a Social Security office in person typically takes 15 to 30 minutes and you will walk out with a receipt showing your application was received. Mailing in Form SS-5 takes longer — usually 7 to 10 business days after the Social Security Administration receives it — but works if you prefer not to visit an office or live far from one.
To find your nearest Social Security office, go to ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment for a replacement card, though some offices accept them and may have shorter wait times.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov, by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at a Social Security office.
- Online requests are fastest if you are a U.S. citizen aged 18 or older with a valid state ID and an existing Social Security number.
- In-person requests usually take 15 to 30 minutes; mailed requests take 7 to 10 business days after receipt.
- You will need to prove your identity and citizenship, which means bringing specific documents depending on which method you choose.
- Replacement cards are free — Social Security does not charge a fee.
Documents you need to bring or submit
The documents required depend on how you request the card. For all methods, you must prove your identity and U.S. citizenship. Social Security accepts a limited list of documents for each category, so bringing the wrong document will delay your request.
For identity, Social Security accepts a valid driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, or passport card. If you do not have one of these, you can bring a combination of documents such as a work ID, school ID, or hospital record — but you will need to ask Social Security which combinations they will accept before you visit or mail in your request.
For citizenship, bring your U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of U.S. Citizenship, or original or certified copy of your birth certificate. If you were born outside the United States, you will also need to bring evidence of your lawful permanent resident status or work authorization.
If you are requesting the card by mail, you must send copies of these documents, not originals. Social Security recommends sending certified copies or copies certified by the agency that issued them. Do not send originals — they will not be returned to you.
What happens after you submit your request
If you requested your card online, you will receive a confirmation number immediately. Social Security will mail your new card to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can check the status of your online request by signing into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov.
If you applied in person, you will receive a receipt showing the date you applied. Your card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you mailed Form SS-5, Social Security will send you a confirmation letter once they receive and process your request, followed by your card.
If your card does not arrive within 10 business days, contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. Have your receipt or confirmation number ready.
Replacing a card that was lost, stolen, or damaged
The process is the same whether your card is lost, stolen, or damaged. You do not need to report a lost or stolen card to Social Security before requesting a replacement — just request a new one using the method that works for you.
If your card was damaged (torn, faded, or illegible), bring the damaged card with you if you are visiting in person, or include it with your mailed request. If you cannot include it, explain the damage in a note with your Form SS-5.
If you believe your Social Security number has been misused after your card was stolen, you can report it to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. This creates an official record and may help if fraudulent accounts are opened in your name.
Limits on how many replacement cards you can get
Social Security limits the number of replacement cards you can receive in a year and over your lifetime. You can get up to three replacement cards in a 12-month period and up to 10 in your lifetime. These limits exist to prevent fraud.
If you have reached your limit, Social Security will tell you when you apply. You will need to explain why you need another card — for example, if your card is repeatedly lost or stolen, Social Security may ask you to address the underlying problem before issuing another one.
If you have a documented reason for needing more cards (such as a medical condition that causes you to lose items frequently), you can request an exception. Contact your local Social Security office to discuss your situation.
Using your receipt before your card arrives
If you need proof of your Social Security number before your new card arrives, you can use your receipt or confirmation number. Some employers and financial institutions will accept a receipt as temporary proof while you wait for the physical card.
If you need an official document showing your Social Security number right away, you can request a Social Security Statement (a record of your earnings and benefits) from your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. This document includes your number and can serve as proof in some situations.
If a specific organization will not accept your receipt or statement, ask them what documents they do accept. Some may allow you to provide your number verbally and verify it later when your card arrives.
Special situations: Name changes and corrections
If you are changing your name (through marriage, divorce, or legal name change) and need a new card with your updated name, the process is the same as requesting a replacement. Bring your identity document showing your new name and the document that proves the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
If your card has an error on it — your name is spelled wrong, your date of birth is incorrect, or your number is wrong — you still use Form SS-5 or visit in person, but you must bring the incorrect card and documents proving what the correct information should be. Social Security will correct the error and issue a new card at no cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a replacement card cost?
Replacement cards are free. Social Security does not charge a fee for a replacement card, whether you request it online, by mail, or in person. Be cautious of websites or services that claim to charge a fee — they are not affiliated with Social Security.
Can I get a replacement card if I do not have a state ID or passport?
Yes. If you do not have a driver's license, state ID, or passport, you can bring other documents to prove your identity, such as a work ID, school ID, hospital record, or utility bill. Contact Social Security before you visit to confirm which documents they will accept in your situation.
What if I need my card urgently?
The fastest option is to request your card online at ssa.gov if you meet the requirements — you will receive a confirmation number immediately and your card will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you cannot use the online option, visiting a Social Security office in person is the next fastest route.
Can someone else request a replacement card for me?
If you are a minor or unable to request the card yourself, a parent, guardian, or authorized representative can request it on your behalf. They will need to bring documents proving their relationship to you or their authorization, along with your identity and citizenship documents. Contact your local Social Security office to ask what documents are needed.
What if I moved and my address changed?
Update your address with Social Security before you request a replacement card. You can update your address online through your my Social Security account, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at a Social Security office. Your new card will be mailed to your updated address.