You can order a replacement card by mail, in person, or online through ssa.gov

The Social Security Administration lets you request a new card three ways: online at ssa.gov (the fastest option), by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at your local Social Security office. Online ordering takes about 1 to 2 weeks. Mail takes 2 to 4 weeks. In-person requests can sometimes be processed faster, but you'll need to bring original documents and wait for an appointment.

You don't need to prove why you need a new card — lost, stolen, or damaged cards all follow the same process. You are limited to three replacement cards per year and ten in your lifetime, though most people never hit these limits.

Key Takeaways

  • Ordering online at ssa.gov is fastest and requires no documents to be mailed or brought in person.
  • You will need to verify your identity using a real ID-compliant driver's license or state ID, or a passport.
  • Mail requests use Form SS-5 and take 2 to 4 weeks; in-person requests at a Social Security office may be faster but require an appointment.
  • You cannot order a card if you are not a U.S. citizen, and you cannot change your name on the card without a separate legal name change document.

Ordering online through ssa.gov

Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and create a my Social Security account if you don't have one. You'll verify your identity using your driver's license or state ID number, and answer security questions based on your credit history. Once your account is set up, you can request a replacement card from the dashboard.

Online ordering is only available if you are a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, have a valid state-issued ID or passport, and have a U.S. mailing address. If any of these don't apply to you, use the mail or in-person route instead.

Your new card will arrive by mail in 1 to 2 weeks. You don't need to print anything or visit an office.

Ordering by mail using Form SS-5

Download or request Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov. Fill it out completely, including your full name, date of birth, and current address. You must sign and date the form — unsigned forms are rejected.

Gather one original document or certified copy proving your identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID work best) and one document proving your age and citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers). Make copies of both documents — do not send originals. Include a cover letter with your name and Social Security number if you have one.

Mail the completed form, copies of your documents, and a cover letter to the Social Security office that serves your area. Find the correct address on ssa.gov/locator. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date they receive your request.

Requesting a card in person at a Social Security office

Call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office, or visit ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you and check their hours. Bring your original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers, plus a valid state ID or passport for identity verification.

Bring the completed Form SS-5 with you, or fill it out at the office. Some offices can issue a card on the spot or within a few days, though this varies by location. Call ahead to ask whether your office can do same-day or next-day service.

What documents you need

You must prove both your identity and your age or citizenship. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of one of these: driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. For age and citizenship, bring an original or certified copy of one of these: U.S. birth certificate, passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship.

Certified copies are official copies stamped by the issuing agency — photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted. If you don't have these documents, you'll need to order them first from your state vital records office or the U.S. Department of State.

If you are applying for a card as a non-citizen, bring your passport plus your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record, I-94A, or I-131 travel document. Bring your visa if you have one.

Changing your name on your Social Security card

You cannot change your name on your card through the standard replacement process. If you legally changed your name (through marriage, divorce, court order, or other legal means), you must provide a certified copy of the legal document that shows the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

If you're ordering online, you cannot change your name; use the mail or in-person route instead. When you apply by mail or in person, include the certified copy of your legal name change document along with your identity and age documents. The Social Security Administration will issue a new card with your updated name.

If your card was stolen or you suspect fraud

Request a replacement card using any of the three methods above. There is no separate "stolen card" process — you follow the same steps as if the card were lost or damaged.

If you suspect someone is using your Social Security number fraudulently, also create an account at identitytheft.gov and file a report. This creates an official record and may help you dispute fraudulent charges or accounts. You can also contact the Social Security Administration's fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 to report the misuse.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

Online ordering takes 1 to 2 weeks. Mail takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date the Social Security Administration receives your request. In-person requests vary by office; some can issue a card the same day or within a few days, but you should call ahead to ask.

Can I get a temporary card while I wait?

No. The Social Security Administration does not issue temporary cards. If you need proof of your Social Security number before your card arrives, you can print a statement from your my Social Security account that shows your number.

Do I have to pay to replace my card?

No. There is no fee to request a replacement card, whether you order online, by mail, or in person.

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

You can order a certified copy of your birth certificate from your state's vital records office (usually the county clerk or health department). This typically costs $10 to $30 and takes 1 to 3 weeks. If you need a card faster, visit a Social Security office in person and ask whether they can help you locate alternative documents.

Can I order a card for someone else?

No. The person requesting the card must apply themselves, except for children under 18 (a parent or guardian can apply on their behalf) or adults with a legal representative or power of attorney. Call 1-800-772-1213 if you are applying for someone else and need guidance.