How to request a replacement Social Security card
You can request a replacement Social Security card through the Social Security Administration (SSA) in three ways: online at ssa.gov, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online option is fastest — you can complete the request in about 15 minutes if you have a state-issued ID and a My Social Security account. By mail or in person, the process takes longer but works if you do not have online access or prefer to submit documents in hand.
The SSA will mail your replacement card to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days after your request is processed. You do not need to pay a fee. You will need to prove your identity and citizenship or legal residency, which means bringing or uploading specific documents depending on which method you choose.
Key Takeaways
- Online requests through ssa.gov are the fastest route if you have a state ID and a My Social Security account, with cards arriving in 7 to 10 business days.
- You must prove your identity with a state-issued ID and prove citizenship or legal residency with a birth certificate, passport, or immigration document.
- If you do not have a state ID, you can apply by mail or in person, but you will need to provide additional documents to verify who you are.
- The SSA mails cards to your address on file; you cannot pick one up in person or have it sent elsewhere without updating your address first.
- There is no charge for a replacement card, and you can request one as many times as you need.
Applying online through My Social Security
The online method requires a My Social Security account, which you can create at ssa.gov if you do not already have one. You will need a valid state-issued ID (driver's license, state ID card, or passport), your date of birth, and your Social Security number. The account setup takes a few minutes and uses identity verification questions based on your credit history.
Once logged in, go to the "Replacement Social Security Card" section and follow the prompts. You will upload a photo of your ID and answer questions about your citizenship status and why you need a replacement. The SSA will review your request and mail your card to the address they have on file. You can check the status of your request by logging back into your account.
Applying by mail
To apply by mail, download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to request a copy. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and the reason you need a replacement card. You must sign and date the form — an unsigned form will be returned.
Gather copies of documents that prove your identity and citizenship or legal residency. Identity documents include a state-issued ID, passport, or military ID. Citizenship or residency documents include a birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or immigration document. Mail the completed form and copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. You can find the address on ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Do not send original documents — send copies only. The SSA will not return them. Mail takes longer than online requests, typically 2 to 3 weeks for processing plus mailing time.
Applying in person at a Social Security office
Walk into your local Social Security office with Form SS-5 (completed and signed), your original identity document, and your original citizenship or residency document. You do not need an appointment for a replacement card request, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring the originals because the SSA will examine them in person, though they will not keep them.
The office staff will review your documents on the spot and submit your request. You will receive a receipt showing your application was processed. Your card will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your card urgently, ask the office staff whether expedited processing is available in your area — some offices offer it, but it is not standard everywhere.
What documents you need
The SSA requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of citizenship or legal residency. You must provide at least one document from each category.
| Proof of Identity | Proof of Citizenship or Legal Residency |
|---|---|
| State-issued driver's license or ID card | U.S. birth certificate |
| U.S. passport | U.S. passport |
| Military ID | Naturalization certificate |
| School or work ID with photo | Permanent resident card (green card) |
| Tribal ID | Employment Authorization Document (EAD) |
| Visa and passport |
If your documents are in a language other than English, bring an official English translation along with the original. If you do not have a state ID or passport, you can use a school ID, work ID with a photo, or tribal ID as proof of identity, though you will need to provide additional documents to verify your address.
If you have lost or damaged documents
If you do not have an original birth certificate or passport, you can request one from the state vital records office (for birth certificates) or the U.S. Department of State (for passports) before you apply for your Social Security card. This adds time to the overall process, but it is necessary — the SSA will not issue a card without proof of citizenship or residency.
If you are a permanent resident or have a work visa and do not have a green card or EAD yet, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request a replacement or check the status of your document. You can still apply for a Social Security card once you have the document in hand or can show proof that you have applied for it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement Social Security card?
Online requests usually arrive within 7 to 10 business days after processing. Mail applications take 2 to 3 weeks for processing plus mailing time. In-person applications are processed immediately, and your card is mailed within 7 to 10 business days. Actual delivery depends on your postal service.
Can I get a replacement card if I have a name change?
Yes. You will need to provide proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Submit this along with your identity and citizenship documents. The SSA will issue a card with your new name.
What if I do not have a state ID or passport?
You can use a school ID, work ID with a photo, or tribal ID as proof of identity. If you apply in person, bring the original. If you apply by mail or online, you may need to provide additional documents to verify your address, such as a utility bill or lease.
Can I request a replacement card for someone else?
No. Adults must request their own card. Parents or guardians can request a card for a minor child by applying in person with the child's birth certificate and the parent's ID. You will need to show proof of guardianship if you are not the biological parent.
Is there a fee for a replacement Social Security card?
No. The SSA does not charge for replacement cards. If a website or service claims to charge you for a Social Security card, it is not affiliated with the SSA.