Where to order and what you need

You can order a replacement Social Security card through the Social Security Administration (SSA) in three ways: online at ssa.gov, by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online option is fastest — you can request a card and track its status without leaving home, and it typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Mail and in-person requests usually take 2 to 4 weeks.

To order online, you need a my Social Security account. If you don't have one, you can create it at ssa.gov using your Social Security number, date of birth, email address, and a U.S. mailing address. You'll also need to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history or by uploading a photo of your driver's license or state ID card.

If you order by mail or in person, you'll need to bring or send proof of citizenship (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), proof of identity (a driver's license, passport, or state ID), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). You do not need to bring your Social Security card itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Online ordering through ssa.gov is the fastest method and typically takes 7 to 10 business days if you have a my Social Security account.
  • You can order by mail using Form SS-5 or in person at a local Social Security office, though both take 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Online ordering requires proof of identity through credit history questions or a photo of your driver's license or state ID.
  • Mail and in-person orders require original or certified copies of citizenship, identity, and address documents.
  • There is no fee to order a replacement card, and you can track your order status online after you submit it.

Ordering online through my Social Security

Go to ssa.gov and select "Create my Social Security account" if you don't already have one. You'll enter your Social Security number, date of birth, email address, and mailing address. The SSA will then ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history — these questions pull from your credit file and only you should know the answers.

If you don't have enough credit history or prefer not to answer credit questions, you can verify your identity by uploading a photo of your driver's license or state ID instead. The photo must be clear, show your full face, and match the name on your Social Security record. Once your account is verified, you can log in and request a replacement card immediately.

After you submit your request, you'll receive a confirmation number. You can use this number to check the status of your card at any time by logging back into your account. The SSA will also send you email updates as your card moves through processing and ships.

Ordering 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 out the form completely, including your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and Social Security number. You must sign and date the form — an unsigned form will be returned to you.

Make copies of your citizenship, identity, and address documents. Do not send originals unless they are certified copies. Acceptable citizenship documents include a U.S. birth certificate, passport, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. For identity, the SSA accepts a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. For address, send a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement.

Mail your completed form and copies to your local Social Security office. You can find the mailing address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Include a note with your phone number and email so the SSA can contact you if there are questions. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date the office receives your application.

Ordering in person at a Social Security office

Bring your completed Form SS-5, original or certified copies of your citizenship and identity documents, and proof of your current address to your local Social Security office. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though some locations now use an online scheduling system — check ssa.gov to see if yours does.

Bring all documents with you even if you have ordered a card before. The SSA verifies information for every replacement request. Processing time is the same whether you apply in person or by mail: 2 to 4 weeks. You'll receive a receipt showing when to expect your card.

What happens if your name has changed

If you've changed your name since your last Social Security card was issued — through marriage, divorce, court order, or any other reason — you must provide legal proof of the name change along with your other documents. Acceptable proof includes a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or amended birth certificate.

The name on your new card will match the name on your legal documents. If your Social Security record still shows your old name, the SSA will update it when you order your replacement card. This process is included in the standard 2 to 4 week timeframe for mail and in-person orders, or 7 to 10 business days for online orders.

Replacing a card that was lost, stolen, or damaged

You can order a replacement for any reason — loss, theft, damage, or simply needing an extra copy. The process is the same regardless of why you need a new card. You do not need to explain what happened to your old card or provide a police report if it was stolen.

If your card was damaged, you can include the damaged card with your mail application so the SSA can see the condition. This is optional but can speed up processing if there are questions about your identity or Social Security number.

Tracking your order and what to do if it doesn't arrive

If you ordered online, log into your my Social Security account to check the status of your card at any time. The status will show whether your card is being processed, has been mailed, or has been delivered. If you ordered by mail or in person, you can call your local Social Security office with your receipt number to ask about your application.

If your card doesn't arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your local Social Security office. Bring your receipt or confirmation number. The office can check whether your card was mailed and may be able to reissue it if it was lost in transit. There is no additional fee for a replacement if your card was lost after being mailed to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my old Social Security card to order a new one?

No. You do not need to bring or send your old card. You only need to bring proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of your current address. If your old card was lost or stolen, you can still order a replacement without it.

Can I order a card if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

You can order a replacement card if you already have a Social Security number and a valid visa or work authorization document. You'll need to show your visa or work permit along with your other documents. If you don't have a Social Security number yet, you'll need to apply for one first through your employer or the SSA.

How much does it cost to order a replacement card?

There is no fee. The SSA does not charge for Social Security cards, whether you order your first card or a replacement. Be cautious of websites that charge a fee to help you order — the SSA's official service is always free.

What if I need my card before the standard processing time?

Online ordering is the fastest option at 7 to 10 business days. If you need your card sooner, you can visit your local Social Security office in person and ask if they can issue a temporary card or expedite your request. Some offices can print a card on the spot, though this depends on your office's equipment and staffing.

Can someone else order a card for me?

No. You must order your own card or have a parent or legal guardian order it for you if you're a minor. If you're an adult, you cannot authorize someone else to request a card on your behalf, even with a power of attorney. You can order online, by mail, or in person yourself.