You request a Social Security number through the Social Security Administration (SSA), not through a private company or website

The SSA issues Social Security numbers. You cannot order one online or by phone. You must apply in person at a local Social Security office, bring specific documents, and wait for the SSA to process your request. The process takes different amounts of time depending on whether you were born in the United States, are a noncitizen, or are applying for a child.

If you need a replacement card because yours is lost or stolen, the process is faster than a first-time request. If you have never had a number, the process is longer and requires more documentation.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Social Security office in person with original or certified documents — there is no online or phone application for a new number.
  • U.S. citizens applying for their first number typically need a birth certificate, state ID or passport, and proof of age and identity.
  • Noncitizens need a birth certificate, passport, visa or immigration document, and proof of work authorization or legal residency status.
  • Processing takes two to four weeks for U.S. citizens and longer for noncitizens, depending on whether immigration documents need verification.
  • Replacement cards for lost or stolen numbers are usually processed faster, sometimes within one to two weeks.

Documents you need to bring to a Social Security office

The SSA requires original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. You must bring proof of age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status. Bring more than one document in each category if possible, because the SSA may reject a single document if it is worn, unclear, or does not match other records.

For U.S. citizens, bring a birth certificate (original or certified copy from the vital records office in your state), a state-issued ID or driver's license, and a passport if you have one. If you do not have a state ID yet, bring a school ID, employee ID, or other government-issued photo ID. The SSA also accepts utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements as proof of current address, though these are not required for a first-time number.

For noncitizens, bring your birth certificate, passport, and immigration document (visa, green card, employment authorization document, or other proof of legal status). The requirements vary by immigration status. If you are not sure which documents to bring, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 before you visit, or check the SSA website for your specific situation.

How to find and visit your local Social Security office

Use the SSA office locator on ssa.gov to find the office nearest you. Enter your city and state or zip code. The locator shows office addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though some have different hours.

You do not need an appointment for a first-time Social Security number request at most offices, but calling ahead is wise. Some offices are very busy and may have long wait times. If you call the office directly, staff can tell you whether you should come in or whether they recommend scheduling an appointment. The main SSA phone line is 1-800-772-1213.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive early if possible, because offices close at 4 p.m. and stop taking new applications before closing time.

What happens after you submit your application

The SSA will give you a receipt when you leave the office. Keep this receipt — it shows you have applied and is useful if you need to prove you have a pending application to an employer or school. The receipt also has a phone number you can call to check on your application status.

For U.S. citizens, the SSA typically mails your Social Security card within two to four weeks. For noncitizens, processing takes longer because the SSA must verify your immigration status with the Department of Homeland Security. This can take four to six weeks or longer depending on the type of visa or immigration document you have.

If you do not receive your card within the timeframe the SSA gave you, call 1-800-772-1213 with your receipt number. Do not assume the application was lost — delays are common, especially during busy periods.

Replacement cards for lost, stolen, or damaged numbers

If your card is lost, stolen, or too damaged to read, you can request a replacement. You still must visit a Social Security office in person, but you need fewer documents. Bring a state ID or driver's license and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). You do not need to bring your birth certificate again.

Replacement cards are usually processed faster than first-time requests — often within one to two weeks. You will receive a receipt with an expected delivery date. If your card is stolen, consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at the same time, though this is separate from your SSA request.

What to do if you cannot visit an office in person

In rare cases, the SSA will send someone to your home or hospital if you are unable to travel. This is not common and requires a written request with medical documentation. Call your local Social Security office to ask whether this option is available in your area and what paperwork you need to submit.

If you are outside the United States, you can apply at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Contact the embassy in your country to ask about their process and required documents. Processing times are usually longer for applications submitted abroad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security number online or by mail?

No. You must apply in person at a Social Security office. The SSA does not accept online or mail applications for new numbers. You can check your application status by phone at 1-800-772-1213 using your receipt number, but you cannot submit the initial request remotely.

How much does a Social Security number cost?

There is no fee. The SSA does not charge for issuing a Social Security number or card. If a website or service charges you to request a number, it is not affiliated with the SSA and you should not use it.

What if I lost my receipt from the Social Security office?

Call 1-800-772-1213 and provide your name, date of birth, and the approximate date you applied. The SSA can look up your application in their system and give you a new receipt number or tell you the status of your card. You do not need the original receipt to check on your application.

Do I need a Social Security number before I can start a job?

Most employers require a Social Security number before your first day of work. If you have applied but have not received your card yet, bring your receipt to your employer. Many employers will accept the receipt as proof that you have applied and will allow you to start work while you wait for the card to arrive.

Can someone else pick up my Social Security card for me?

No. The SSA mails cards directly to the address you provided on your application. You cannot have someone else pick it up at the office. If your mailing address changes after you apply, call 1-800-772-1213 to update it before the card is mailed.