You can get a replacement card by mail, in person, or online depending on your state

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will replace a lost, stolen, or damaged card at no cost. You do not need to wait for your card to expire — you can request a replacement whenever you need one. The fastest route depends on where you live: some states let you apply online through a secure portal, others require you to visit a local Social Security office or mail in your documents.

You are limited to three replacement cards per year and ten total in your lifetime, though most people never reach those limits. The SSA issues the replacement with the same number as your original card — your number does not change.

Key Takeaways

  • Online replacement is available in most states and takes about 5 to 10 business days; check your state's SSA website to see if you can start there.
  • In-person visits at a local Social Security office are faster for some people but require an appointment, which you book online or by phone.
  • Mailing in your documents takes longer — typically 2 to 3 weeks — but works in every state and requires no appointment.
  • You will need proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers) and a photo ID, even if you have had a card before.
  • If your card was stolen, you do not need to report it to the SSA separately; the replacement request itself updates your record.

Applying online through your state's portal

Most states now offer online replacement through the SSA's secure website. Go to ssa.gov, select "Replacement Social Security Card," and check whether your state is listed. If it is, you can create or log into your my Social Security account and submit your request without leaving home.

The online process asks you to upload photos of your documents — your birth certificate or passport (for citizenship proof) and your driver's license or state ID (for photo identification). Make sure the images are clear and show all four corners of each document. The SSA will review your submission and mail your replacement card to the address on file, usually within 5 to 10 business days.

If your state is not yet on the online list, you will need to use one of the other methods below.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

Walk-in service at Social Security offices is no longer available; you must book an appointment first. Go to ssa.gov/appt, enter your zip code, and choose a date and time that works for you. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to schedule by phone.

Bring your original or certified birth certificate, your passport, or your naturalization papers (for citizenship proof) and a photo ID such as a driver's license or state ID. Bring the documents themselves, not copies — the SSA will examine them in person. The office will process your request on the spot, and you will receive your replacement card by mail within 1 to 2 weeks.

In-person appointments are useful if you need your card quickly or if you are uncomfortable uploading documents online. Some offices have shorter wait times than others; the appointment system shows current wait times for each location.

Mailing in your documents

If you cannot visit an office or use the online system, you can mail your request to the SSA. Download the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) from ssa.gov, fill it out by hand, and mail it with copies of your citizenship and identity documents to the address listed on the form.

Make photocopies of your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers and your driver's license or state ID. Do not send original documents — send copies only. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number so the SSA can contact you if they have questions.

Mail your packet to the SSA office that serves your area. You can find the correct address on the Form SS-5 itself or by entering your zip code at ssa.gov/locator. Processing by mail typically takes 2 to 3 weeks. If you need your card sooner, consider the online or in-person options instead.

What documents you need for any method

The SSA requires two types of documents: proof of citizenship and proof of identity. For citizenship, you can use your original or certified birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of Citizenship. For identity, bring a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID.

If you do not have a photo ID, the SSA will accept other documents such as a school ID, employee ID, or medical record with your name and identifying information. Call your local Social Security office before you visit or mail your request if you are unsure whether your documents will work.

If your birth certificate is not certified (does not have an official seal or raised stamp), you will need to order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. This usually costs $10 to $25 and takes 1 to 2 weeks. Plan ahead if you need a certified copy.

If your card was lost or stolen

You do not need to file a separate theft report with the SSA. Requesting a replacement card is enough — the SSA will note in your record that you requested a new card. However, if you are concerned about identity theft (for example, if your wallet was stolen along with other documents), you may want to check your credit report and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

You can check your Social Security earnings record and look for suspicious activity by logging into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. If you see earnings you did not make, contact the SSA's fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 to report it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

Online requests take 5 to 10 business days. In-person appointments at a Social Security office take 1 to 2 weeks. Mailing in your documents takes 2 to 3 weeks. Times vary by location and current volume.

Can I get a replacement card if I have changed my name?

Yes. You will need to show proof of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring this document along with your citizenship and identity documents to your appointment or include it with your mailed request.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship instead. If you have none of these, contact your local Social Security office — they can tell you what other documents may work in your situation.

Do I need to bring my old card to get a replacement?

No. If your old card is lost or stolen, you do not need it. If you still have it and it is damaged, you can bring it to your appointment, but it is not required.

Will my Social Security number change?

No. Your replacement card will have the same number as your original card. The SSA does not reissue numbers when you request a replacement.