Getting a replacement Social Security card

You can get a new Social Security card by visiting your local Social Security office in person, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. The process is free and takes about two weeks by mail or same-day in some offices. You will need to bring proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), proof of identity (a driver's license or state ID), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 12 months).

If you cannot visit an office, you can mail an application to your local Social Security office. Call 1-800-772-1213 to find the address or check ssa.gov for your nearest location. The Social Security Administration will mail your new card to the address you provide, usually within 7 to 10 business days after they receive your application.

Key Takeaways

  • You need proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of your current address to get a replacement card.
  • In-person visits at a Social Security office are fastest and often same-day, while mail applications take one to two weeks.
  • You can call 1-800-772-1213 to find your local office, confirm what documents they need, and ask about wait times.
  • The card is free; you will never pay a fee to the Social Security Administration for a replacement.
  • If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document proving the change.

When you need a new card

You need a replacement if your card is lost, stolen, damaged, or if your name has changed. You also need a new card if you have reached your limit on replacements — the Social Security Administration allows up to three replacements per year and ten in your lifetime, though this limit exists to prevent fraud.

If your card was stolen, report it to the Social Security Administration and consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You can place one by calling any of the three bureaus; they will notify the others.

Documents you must bring

The Social Security Administration requires three types of documents: proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of your current address. You cannot use a photocopy or digital image — bring the original or a certified copy.

For citizenship, acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. For identity, bring a state-issued driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. For your address, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 12 months. A cell phone bill usually does not work because the Social Security Administration considers it too easy to falsify.

If your name has changed, bring the legal document proving it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Social Security Administration will not issue a card under a new name without this proof.

Applying in person versus by mail

Visiting a Social Security office in person is usually faster. Many offices issue cards the same day or within a few days. You will need to fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) at the office or bring it completed from home. You can download the form at ssa.gov or ask for one when you arrive.

Applying by mail takes longer but works if you cannot visit an office. Mail the completed Form SS-5 along with copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. Keep copies for your records. The Social Security Administration will mail your new card to the address you list on the application, usually within 7 to 10 business days after they receive it.

Call 1-800-772-1213 before you visit to ask about current wait times at your local office. Some offices have shorter waits on certain days or times of day. You can also ask whether they need any additional documents specific to your situation.

What happens after you apply

Once the Social Security Administration approves your application, they will mail your new card to the address you provided. The card arrives in a plain envelope with no tracking number, so it may take a few extra days to reach you depending on mail delivery in your area. If you do not receive it within three weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.

When your new card arrives, sign the back of it in blue or black ink before you use it. Do not laminate it or write anything else on it. Keep it in a safe place — you do not need to carry it with you every day. Many employers and financial institutions only need your Social Security number, not the physical card.

Replacing a card if yours was stolen

If your card was stolen, act quickly to prevent identity theft. Report it to the Social Security Administration by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local office. They will flag your account and issue a replacement. You do not need to wait for the stolen card to be used against you — reporting it now protects you.

At the same time, place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus. Call Equifax at 1-800-685-1111, Experian at 1-888-397-3742, or TransUnion at 1-800-680-7289. A fraud alert lasts one year and tells lenders to call you before opening new accounts. You can renew it annually if you remain concerned. If you believe your identity has already been stolen, you can place an extended fraud alert (lasting seven years) or a credit freeze, which blocks all credit inquiries unless you temporarily lift it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?

There is no cost. The Social Security Administration issues cards for free. If anyone asks you to pay for a Social Security card, they are committing fraud. Only visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 for official information.

Can I get a Social Security card if I was not born in the United States?

Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen or authorized to work in the United States. You will need to bring proof of citizenship (naturalization papers or a certificate of citizenship) or proof of work authorization (a visa, employment authorization document, or green card). Bring the same identity and address documents as anyone else.

What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have a driver's license?

You can use other forms of ID, such as a passport, military ID, or state ID card. If you do not have any of these, ask your local Social Security office what alternatives they accept. Some offices may allow a combination of documents, such as a school ID plus a utility bill.

How long does it take to get a replacement card by mail?

The Social Security Administration usually mails your card within 7 to 10 business days after they receive your application. Delivery time depends on your location and mail service, so allow an extra week for it to arrive. If you do not receive it within three weeks of applying, contact your local office.

Do I need to replace my card if my name changed but I did not get married?

Yes, if you legally changed your name through a court order. Bring the court order along with your other documents. If you changed your name informally without a court order, the Social Security Administration will not issue a new card under that name.