You can replace a lost Social Security card by visiting your local Social Security office, mailing an application, or using an online service if your state offers one
The fastest way to replace a lost Social Security card is to visit a Social Security office in person. You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of age — the office will tell you which documents they accept when you arrive or call ahead. Processing usually takes one to two weeks after you submit your application. Some states now allow you to request a replacement card online through a secure portal, which can be faster, though not all states have this option yet.
If you cannot visit an office, you can mail an application to your regional Social Security office. This takes longer — typically three to four weeks — because your documents must be verified by mail and the card must be produced and sent to you. You will need to complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) and include certified copies of your documents, not originals.
Key Takeaways
- In-person replacement at a Social Security office is usually fastest, taking one to two weeks from the date you apply.
- You must bring proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport), and proof of age — originals or certified copies depending on the office's rules.
- Some states offer online replacement through a secure portal, which may be faster than visiting an office, though availability varies by state.
- Mailing an application takes three to four weeks and requires certified copies of documents, not originals.
- There is no fee to replace a Social Security card, and you do not need to report the card lost to Social Security before requesting a replacement.
What documents you need to bring
Social Security requires three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of age. Proof of identity can be a driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. Proof of citizenship is usually a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate. Proof of age is typically your birth certificate or passport.
If you do not have originals, you can bring certified copies — these are copies stamped and signed by the issuing agency. A photocopy you make yourself will not be accepted. If you are applying by mail, you must send certified copies, not originals, because Social Security will not return them to you.
If you were born outside the United States, you will also need to show proof of lawful status — this can be a green card, work permit, visa, or other immigration document. If you do not have these documents, the office will tell you what alternatives they can accept.
Applying in person at a Social Security office
Call your local Social Security office or visit ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you and check their hours. Some offices require you to make an appointment; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Calling ahead tells you whether you need an appointment and whether the office is currently accepting walk-ins.
Bring your original documents or certified copies, along with a completed Form SS-5 if you have one — you can fill it out at home or at the office. The office staff will verify your documents, take your application, and give you a receipt. Your new card will be mailed to the address on your application within one to two weeks.
If you are replacing a card because it was stolen or you suspect fraud, tell the office staff when you arrive. They may flag your account for monitoring, though this is not automatic.
Applying by mail
Download or request Form SS-5 from ssa.gov. Fill it out completely, including your current address and phone number. Make certified copies of your proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of age — do not send originals. Mail the form and copies to your regional Social Security office. You can find the mailing address for your region on the form itself or on ssa.gov.
Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number so the office can contact you if they have questions. Mail everything together in one envelope. Processing takes three to four weeks from the date Social Security receives your application. You will receive your new card by mail at the address you listed on the form.
Online replacement (where available)
Some states now offer online Social Security card replacement through a secure portal. To use this service, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid state-issued ID, and live in a state that offers the service. You will need to verify your identity online, usually by answering security questions or uploading a photo of your ID.
Check whether your state offers this service by visiting ssa.gov and searching for your state's name. If your state participates, you can request a replacement card without visiting an office or mailing documents. Processing time is usually faster than mailing — typically one to two weeks — though this varies by state.
What to do if you suspect fraud or identity theft
If your Social Security card was stolen or you suspect someone is using your number, tell the Social Security office staff when you apply for a replacement. They can place a note on your account. However, Social Security does not issue a new number just because your card was lost or stolen — you keep the same number.
If you believe your number has been used fraudulently, you should also report it to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. The FTC will create a report you can use with banks, creditors, and other agencies. You may also want to place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to prevent someone from opening accounts in your name.
Timeline and what to expect
| Method | Processing Time | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| In-person at Social Security office | 1 to 2 weeks | You have all documents and can visit an office |
| Online (if your state offers it) | 1 to 2 weeks | You are 18 or older and have a valid state ID |
| By mail | 3 to 4 weeks | You cannot visit an office or use online service |
After you submit your application, Social Security will mail your new card to the address you provided. The card itself is not tracked, so you will not receive a notification when it arrives — it will simply appear in your mailbox. If you do not receive it within the timeframe given, call your local Social Security office to check the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to report my card lost to Social Security before I request a replacement?
No. You can request a replacement card without reporting it lost first. Simply apply using one of the methods above, and Social Security will issue a new card with the same number. If you suspect fraud, you can mention it to the office staff, but it is not required to get a replacement.
Can I get a replacement card if I do not have a birth certificate?
Yes, but you will need to bring other documents that prove your citizenship and age. Acceptable alternatives include a passport, naturalization certificate, or state ID. Call your local Social Security office to ask which documents they will accept in place of a birth certificate.
Is there a fee to replace a Social Security card?
No. Replacing a lost or stolen Social Security card is free. If someone asks you to pay, they are not representing Social Security.
How many replacement cards can I request in a year?
Social Security limits you to three replacement cards in a 12-month period and ten in your lifetime. If you reach this limit, you must visit a Social Security office in person and explain why you need additional replacements.
What if I moved and my address changed since I lost my card?
Provide your current address on your application, and Social Security will mail the new card there. You do not need to update your address separately — the replacement application will do that for you.