You cannot retrieve your Social Security number online through a single government website

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not have a tool where you log in and view your Social Security number. If you have lost or forgotten your number, you will need to contact SSA directly by phone, mail, or in person at a local office — or use a third-party service that may have it on file.

What you can do online is create a my Social Security account, which lets you view your earnings record and benefit statements. But that account requires you to already know your Social Security number to set up.

Key Takeaways

  • The Social Security Administration does not offer an online tool to retrieve a forgotten Social Security number.
  • You can call SSA's main line at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and speak to a representative who can confirm your number over the phone.
  • You can visit a local Social Security office in person with a photo ID and birth certificate to request your number in writing.
  • If you have a my Social Security account, you can log in to view your earnings record, but you cannot see your full Social Security number displayed on screen for security reasons.
  • Banks, employers, and government agencies may have your Social Security number on file and can sometimes confirm it if you verify your identity.

Calling the Social Security Administration

The fastest way to retrieve your Social Security number is to call SSA directly. The main customer service line is 1-800-772-1213. You will reach a representative who can confirm your number after you answer security questions about your identity — typically your date of birth, mother's maiden name, and recent addresses.

Call times vary by season, but wait times are usually shorter early in the morning or late in the afternoon on weekdays. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use the TTY line at 1-800-325-0778. Have your photo ID ready when you call.

Visiting a Social Security Office in Person

You can walk into any local Social Security office and request your Social Security number. Bring a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and your birth certificate or a certified copy. The staff will verify your identity and provide your number in writing.

Wait times at offices vary widely by location and time of day. Many offices are busiest mid-morning and mid-week. You can find your nearest office and check current wait times on the SSA website at ssa.gov — search for "find your local office" or use their office locator tool.

Checking Documents You Already Have

Before contacting SSA, check paperwork you may have at home. Your Social Security number appears on tax returns, W-2 forms, 1099 forms, bank statements, mortgage documents, and insurance policies. If you filed taxes in the past five years, your most recent tax return will have it.

If you have a my Social Security account set up, you can log in and view your earnings record. Your full number is not displayed on screen for security, but the last four digits appear in your account settings, which can help you confirm whether a number you think you remember is correct.

Contacting Your Employer or Bank

Your employer has your Social Security number on file from your W-4 form and payroll records. You can contact your human resources or payroll department and ask them to confirm it. Similarly, banks and credit card companies have your number on file. Call the customer service line on the back of your card or statement and ask them to verify your number after you pass their identity checks.

These organizations will not give you your number over the phone without confirming your identity first, but they can tell you whether a number you provide is the one they have on record.

Ordering a Replacement Social Security Card

If you need a replacement card (not just the number), you can request one online through ssa.gov if you meet certain conditions: you must have a state-issued ID, a valid email address, and a U.S. mailing address. The online application takes about 15 minutes. Otherwise, you can apply in person at a local office or by mail.

A replacement card costs nothing. Processing usually takes 7 to 10 business days if you apply online or in person, or 2 to 3 weeks if you mail your application. The card will have the same number as your original.

What to Do If You Suspect Fraud

If you cannot find your Social Security number and suspect someone else may be using it, contact SSA immediately at 1-800-772-1213. You should also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and consider freezing your credit. These steps make it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.

You can report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov, which creates a recovery plan and gives you a record of the report to show to creditors and agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see my full Social Security number in my my Social Security account?

No. For security reasons, the account displays only the last four digits of your number. To see your full number, you must call SSA, visit an office, or check documents like tax returns or W-2 forms that have it printed in full.

What if I do not have a photo ID or birth certificate?

You can still visit a Social Security office, but you will need to bring other documents that prove your identity and age — such as a school record, medical record, or insurance policy. Call ahead to ask which documents your local office accepts, since requirements can vary slightly.

How long does it take to get my number if I call?

If you reach a representative by phone, they can confirm your number immediately after verifying your identity. The entire call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes, though wait times to reach someone can range from a few minutes to over an hour depending on call volume.

Do I need my Social Security number to create a my Social Security account?

Yes. You must enter your Social Security number, date of birth, and email address to set up the account. If you have forgotten your number, you cannot use this method — you will need to call SSA or visit an office first.