The fastest way to replace your card
You can request a replacement Social Security card online through the Social Security Administration's website if you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a state-issued ID or Real ID. The online process takes about 5 to 10 minutes, and your new card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you do not meet those requirements or prefer to apply in person, you can visit your local Social Security office with the right documents.
The online option is the simplest route because you avoid waiting in line and get a confirmed delivery date. You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and either a state driver's license or state ID card that is current and not expired. The system checks your information against Social Security's records and either approves your request immediately or tells you what you need to do next.
Key Takeaways
- You can order a replacement card online at ssa.gov if you are 18 or older with a current state ID or driver's license.
- In-person replacement at a Social Security office requires an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and a state ID.
- Mail-in requests take longer but work if you cannot go online or visit an office; you will need to complete Form SS-5 and mail it with documents.
- Your new card arrives in 7 to 10 business days by mail; you cannot pick it up in person.
- If your card was lost or stolen, you do not need to report it to Social Security first — just request the replacement.
Applying online through ssa.gov
Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and create a my Social Security account if you do not already have one. You will provide your email address, create a password, and answer security questions. Social Security will send you a confirmation email; click the link to verify your account.
Once your account is active, sign in and select "Replace your Social Security card" from the menu. Answer the questions about why you need a replacement — lost, stolen, damaged, or name change — and confirm your current information. Upload a photo of your state ID or driver's license using your phone or computer camera. The system will tell you immediately whether your request was approved.
If approved, you will see a confirmation number and an estimated delivery date. Social Security mails the card to the address on file with them, which is usually the address you provided when you first got your number. If you have moved and your address is not current, update it before you submit your request.
Applying in person at a Social Security office
Bring your original birth certificate or a certified copy, proof of citizenship, and a current state ID or driver's license. Proof of citizenship can be a U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or a foreign passport with an admission stamp. If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office before your appointment.
Call 1-800-772-1213 to find the Social Security office nearest you and ask whether you need an appointment. Some offices take walk-ins; others require you to book a time slot. Bring all your documents in originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. The office will submit your request on the spot, and your card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Applying by mail with Form SS-5
Download Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov or pick one up at your local Social Security office. Fill in your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and the reason you need a replacement. Sign and date the form.
Make copies of your birth certificate, proof of citizenship, and state ID. Mail the form and copies to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the correct mailing address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Include a cover letter with your phone number so Social Security can contact you if they have questions.
Mail-in requests take longer than online or in-person — typically 2 to 3 weeks from the time Social Security receives your envelope. Keep a record of what you mailed and when. If you do not receive your card within 4 weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.
What documents you need for each method
| Method | Documents Required | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Current state ID or driver's license (photo upload) | 7–10 business days |
| In person | Original or certified birth certificate, proof of citizenship, current state ID | 7–10 business days |
| By mail | Copies of birth certificate, proof of citizenship, state ID; completed Form SS-5 | 2–3 weeks |
If your card was lost or stolen
You do not need to contact Social Security to report a lost or stolen card before requesting a replacement. Simply go through the online, in-person, or mail process and select "lost" or "stolen" as your reason. Social Security does not cancel the old card number — your Social Security number stays the same for life.
If you are worried about identity theft because your card was stolen along with other personal information, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) or freeze your credit. Those steps protect your credit report, not your Social Security number itself. Your new card will have the same number printed on it.
What to do if your request is denied or delayed
If you apply online and the system says your request cannot be processed, it usually means your information does not match Social Security's records or your state ID failed verification. The system will tell you to visit an office in person or call 1-800-772-1213 for help. Have your Social Security number and date of birth ready when you call.
If you applied in person or by mail and your card does not arrive within the expected timeframe, call 1-800-772-1213 with your confirmation number or the date you applied. Social Security can check whether your request is still processing or if there is a problem. If documents were missing or unclear, they will tell you what to send.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement card if I changed my name?
Yes. If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you can request a new card with your new name. You will need to show your birth certificate and proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The online process does not handle name changes, so you must apply in person or by mail.
How much does a replacement card cost?
There is no fee. Social Security does not charge for replacement cards. If someone offers to get you a card for money, that is a scam.
What if I do not have a state ID or driver's license for the online application?
You can apply in person at a Social Security office or by mail instead. Both methods accept other forms of ID and do not require a state-issued license. Bring whatever government-issued photo ID you have, along with your birth certificate and proof of citizenship.
Can someone else request a replacement card for me?
No. You must request your own card. If you are unable to apply online, in person, or by mail yourself, a representative payee or legal guardian may help, but you still need to be involved in the process. Call 1-800-772-1213 to discuss your situation.
Will my new card have a different number?
No. Your Social Security number never changes. Your replacement card will have the same number as your original card, just printed on a new piece of plastic.