You can request a Social Security card by mail, in person, or online depending on your situation and which state you live in

The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers three main ways to request a card: online through their website, by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at your local Social Security office. Online is the fastest option if you're may be able to access — you can complete the request in minutes and receive your card in one to two weeks. Mail takes longer but works from anywhere. In-person visits let you handle complications on the spot, though you'll need an appointment.

Your first step is determining which method you can use. Online requests are available only to U.S. citizens age 18 or older who have a state-issued ID or driver's license and a Social Security number already on file. If you don't meet those requirements, or if you're requesting a card for a child, you'll use mail or in-person service instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Online requests through ssa.gov are the fastest option if you're a U.S. citizen over 18 with a state ID and an existing Social Security number.
  • Mail requests use Form SS-5 and require documents proving your identity, age, and citizenship, plus a completed application.
  • In-person requests at your local Social Security office work for any situation but require an appointment and the same supporting documents as mail.
  • You'll need original or certified copies of documents like your birth certificate, passport, or state ID — photocopies alone are not accepted.
  • Processing times vary: online requests typically take one to two weeks, mail requests take two to four weeks, and in-person appointments may be faster depending on your office's backlog.

Requesting a Card Online

Visit ssa.gov/myaccount and select "Request a replacement Social Security card" from the options. You'll need to create or sign into your my Social Security account. The system will ask you to verify your identity using information from your credit file or by uploading a photo of your state ID or driver's license.

The online form takes about 10 minutes. You'll confirm your name, date of birth, and address, then choose whether you want the card mailed to your address on file or to a different address. Once submitted, you can track your card's status through your account. Most cards arrive within one to two weeks, though processing can take longer during high-volume periods.

Online requests are not available if you've had a card issued in the past year, if you're requesting a card for someone else, if you need a name change reflected on the card, or if you're not a U.S. citizen. In those cases, use mail or in-person service.

Requesting a Card by Mail

Download or request Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov. You can print it at home or call 1-800-772-1213 to have one mailed to you. Complete the form with your name, date of birth, citizenship status, and the reason you're requesting the card.

You'll need to include original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, age, and citizenship. Acceptable documents include your birth certificate, passport, state ID, driver's license, or naturalization papers. The SSA does not accept photocopies, notarized copies, or documents that have been altered. If you don't have originals, you can bring them in person to a Social Security office and they'll make certified copies for you on the spot.

Mail your completed form and documents to the address listed on the form — it varies by state. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want your documents returned. Processing typically takes two to four weeks. You can check the status of your request by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local office.

Requesting a Card In Person

Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov/locator to find your nearest Social Security office and schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are not may provide service, so scheduling ahead is strongly recommended. Bring the same documents you would mail: original or certified copies of your birth certificate, passport, state ID, or other proof of identity, age, and citizenship.

Bring Form SS-5 completed, or you can fill it out at the office. The appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. The SSA will review your documents, make copies if needed, and submit your request. You'll receive a receipt showing your application number and expected delivery date. Cards typically arrive within one to two weeks, though some offices can issue a temporary card on the spot in urgent situations.

In-person service is your best option if you're requesting a card for a child, if you need a name change, if you're not a U.S. citizen, or if you've had problems with mail delivery. It's also faster if your local office has short wait times.

Documents You'll Need

The SSA requires proof of three things: your identity, your age, and your citizenship or immigration status. For identity, bring a state-issued ID, driver's license, passport, or military ID. For age, a birth certificate (original or certified copy) is standard. For citizenship, a U.S. passport, birth certificate issued in the U.S., or naturalization papers work.

If you don't have a birth certificate, the SSA accepts hospital records, religious records from your time of birth, or school records as proof of age. If you're not a U.S. citizen, bring your green card, visa, employment authorization document, or other immigration paperwork. Photocopies are not accepted — bring originals or certified copies only. If you're mailing documents, the SSA will return them if you include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Processing Times and What to Expect

Online requests are the fastest: most cards arrive within one to two weeks. Mail requests take two to four weeks from the date the SSA receives your application. In-person requests vary depending on your office's workload, but you'll typically receive your card within one to two weeks after your appointment.

You can track your card's status online if you requested it through your my Social Security account. For mail and in-person requests, call 1-800-772-1213 with your application number (provided on your receipt) to check status. If your card doesn't arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the SSA — cards are occasionally lost in the mail and can be reissued.

Requesting a Card for a Child or Dependent

You cannot request a card online for someone else. Use mail or in-person service instead. For a child, bring the child's birth certificate, proof of the parent's or guardian's identity, and proof of the child's relationship to you (usually the birth certificate serves this purpose). If the child is adopted, bring the adoption decree.

If you're requesting a card for a dependent who is not your biological child, bring documentation showing your legal guardianship or custody. The child does not need to be present for mail requests, but the SSA may ask you to bring the child in person if there are questions about the application.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to request a Social Security card?

There is no charge. The SSA does not charge for Social Security cards, whether you request one online, by mail, or in person. Be cautious of websites or services that claim to charge a fee for this service — they are not affiliated with the SSA.

Can I request a card if I don't have a birth certificate?

Yes. The SSA accepts other documents proving your age, such as hospital records, religious records from your time of birth, school records, or a passport. You'll still need proof of identity and citizenship. Contact your local Social Security office to discuss which documents you have and whether they'll work.

What if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

You can request a card if you have a valid visa, green card, employment authorization document, or other immigration status that allows you to work in the U.S. Bring your immigration documents along with proof of identity and age. You cannot request a card online; use mail or in-person service.

How long does it take to get a replacement card if I lost mine?

Online requests typically arrive within one to two weeks. Mail requests take two to four weeks. In-person requests vary by office but usually result in a card within one to two weeks. Call 1-800-772-1213 if your card doesn't arrive within the expected timeframe.

Can I get a temporary card while I wait?

Some Social Security offices can issue a temporary card on the spot during in-person appointments, but this is not available at all locations. Call ahead to ask whether your local office offers this service. Online and mail requests do not include temporary cards.