You can get a replacement card by mail, in person, or online depending on your state and situation
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will issue you a new card if yours is lost, stolen, damaged, or if your name has changed. You do not need to pay a fee. The fastest route depends on where you live: some states let you request one online through an SSA portal, others require you to visit a local Social Security office or mail in documents, and a few offer both options.
Processing time ranges from one to four weeks by mail, same-day or next-day service at some in-person offices, and one to two weeks online in states where that option exists. You will need proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of your current address. The exact documents accepted vary slightly by state and by which method you use.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a replacement card online in most states through ssa.gov, by mail with a completed Form SS-5, or in person at your local Social Security office.
- You will need a government-issued photo ID, proof of citizenship or legal residency (such as a birth certificate or passport), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease).
- In-person service at a Social Security office is fastest if you have all documents ready, often producing a card the same day or within one business day.
- If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document proving the change along with your other required documents.
- You can check whether your state offers online requests and find your nearest Social Security office at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Requesting online through ssa.gov
Most states now allow you to request a replacement card through the SSA's online portal at ssa.gov. You will create or sign into your my Social Security account, answer questions about your identity, and upload photos of your documents. The system verifies your information against SSA records and, if approved, mails your card to the address on file.
Not all states offer this option yet. Before you start, check ssa.gov/myaccount to see whether your state participates. If it does not, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead. Online requests typically take one to two weeks from approval to delivery.
Applying by mail with Form SS-5
You can request a replacement card by completing Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card), signing it, and mailing it with copies of your required documents to your local Social Security office. You can download the form from ssa.gov or pick one up in person. Do not send original documents — always send copies, and keep copies for your records.
Mail your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form for your state. Processing by mail typically takes two to four weeks. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, and phone number so the office can contact you if there are questions. You can track the status of your application by calling 1-800-772-1213 after one week.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
Walk-in service at a Social Security office is the fastest option if you have all required documents. Many offices issue replacement cards the same day or within one business day. Bring your original documents (not copies) so the office can verify them on the spot. You will fill out Form SS-5 at the office if you have not already.
Call ahead or check ssa.gov to find your nearest office and learn its hours. Some offices require an appointment; others accept walk-ins. Wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring all required documents with you — if any are missing, you will have to return another day or use the mail method instead.
Documents you will need
| Document Type | Examples | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of identity | Driver's license, passport, state ID card | Must be government-issued and current or recently expired. Original required in person; copy acceptable by mail or online. |
| Proof of citizenship or legal residency | Birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, permanent resident card (green card) | Original required in person; certified copy acceptable by mail. Online applicants upload photos. |
| Proof of current address | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, government mail | Must show your name and current address. Document must be dated within the last 12 months. |
| Name change document (if applicable) | Marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order | Required only if your name has changed since your last card was issued. |
The SSA accepts a limited list of documents for each category. If you are unsure whether a document will be accepted, call 1-800-772-1213 before you submit your application. Submitting documents that do not meet the requirements will delay your request.
If your name has changed
When you request a replacement card, you can also update your name on SSA records at the same time. You will need to provide the legal document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The document must be an original or certified copy.
If you are applying online, upload a photo of the name-change document along with your other documents. If you are applying by mail or in person, bring the original or certified copy. The SSA will update your name in their system and issue a card with your new name. This process takes the same amount of time as a standard replacement request.
What to do if you have lost or stolen cards
If your card was stolen or you suspect identity theft, request a replacement as soon as you can. You do not need to report the lost or stolen card to the SSA separately — the replacement request itself updates their records. However, if you believe someone has used your Social Security number fraudulently, contact the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338 to file a report and create a recovery plan.
You can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. This is a free service and lasts one year, though you can renew it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
In-person service at a Social Security office is fastest, often same-day or next-day. Online requests take one to two weeks. Mail requests take two to four weeks. Exact timing depends on your location and how busy the office is.
Can I get a temporary card while I wait for my replacement?
No. The SSA does not issue temporary cards. If you need proof of your Social Security number before your card arrives, you can print a statement from your my Social Security account or call 1-800-772-1213 to request a letter from the SSA.
Do I need an appointment to visit a Social Security office?
It depends on the office. Some require appointments; others accept walk-ins. Check ssa.gov or call your local office to find out. Making an appointment usually means shorter wait times.
What if I do not have all the required documents?
You cannot complete your request without proof of identity, citizenship or legal residency, and current address. If you are missing any of these, gather them first. The SSA website lists acceptable documents for each category, or you can call 1-800-772-1213 for guidance.
Can someone else request a replacement card for me?
A parent or legal guardian can request a card for a minor. For adults, you must request your own card. If you are unable to visit an office or mail documents yourself, you can authorize someone to help you, but you will still need to sign the application form.