The Twin Cities Card Center issues and replaces Social Security cards for people in Minnesota and western Wisconsin

The Social Security Administration (SSA) Twin Cities Card Center is a physical office located in Minneapolis that handles Social Security card production and replacement for residents of Minnesota and parts of western Wisconsin. This is where your new or replacement card is actually made — not where you request one. You request a card through your local Social Security office or online, and if you live in the Twin Cities service area, your card gets produced here before being mailed to you.

The center does not accept walk-in requests for new cards. You must submit your request through a Social Security field office, by mail, or online through ssa.gov before your card can be manufactured at this location. The card is then mailed to the address you provided, usually within 1 to 2 weeks after your request is processed.

Key Takeaways

  • The Twin Cities Card Center manufactures Social Security cards for Minnesota and western Wisconsin residents, but does not accept direct requests from the public.
  • You must request a card through a local Social Security office, by mail, or online before it can be produced at this center.
  • Cards are mailed to your address after production, typically within 1 to 2 weeks of your request being processed.
  • The center's service area covers Minnesota and parts of western Wisconsin; residents outside this area have their cards produced at a different SSA facility.

How to request a Social Security card in the Twin Cities service area

Start your request at your nearest Social Security field office. Bring a completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card), proof of citizenship or legal residency, and a photo ID. You can also download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov and mail it with the same documents to your local office, or submit your request online if you have a my Social Security account.

Once your local office processes your request and verifies your documents, it is sent to the Twin Cities Card Center for production. You do not need to visit the card center yourself. Your new or replacement card will be mailed to the address on your application.

If you are requesting a replacement card because yours was lost, stolen, or damaged, tell the Social Security office when you apply. You may be limited to a certain number of replacement cards in a year, depending on your age and circumstances.

What documents you need to bring

Social Security requires proof of your identity, citizenship or legal residency status, and age. A driver's license or state ID card counts as proof of identity. For citizenship, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your green card, work visa, or other immigration document showing your legal status.

If you do not have a photo ID, Social Security will accept other documents like a school ID, employee badge, or insurance card. Ask your local Social Security office which documents they will accept before you visit, because requirements can vary slightly by office.

Timeline for receiving your card

After you submit your request and your local office verifies your documents, the paperwork goes to the Twin Cities Card Center for production. Standard production and mailing takes 1 to 2 weeks. If there are questions about your application or documents, the process may take longer.

If you have not received your card within 3 weeks of submitting your request, contact your local Social Security office to check the status. They can tell you whether your card has been produced and mailed, or whether there is a delay.

The Twin Cities Card Center's service area

The Twin Cities Card Center serves all of Minnesota and the following Wisconsin counties: Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Menominee, Oneida, Polk, Rusk, Sawyer, and Washburn. If you live in this area and request a Social Security card, it will be produced here.

Residents outside this area have their cards produced at a different SSA card production facility. The facility does not affect how long your card takes to arrive or where it is mailed — that depends on when your local office processes your request and your mailing address.

Replacing a card that was lost, stolen, or damaged

You can request a replacement card at any Social Security field office using the same process as a new card. Bring Form SS-5, proof of identity, and proof of citizenship or legal residency. Tell the office why you need a replacement — whether it is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Social Security limits the number of replacement cards you can receive. If you are 18 or older, you can get up to 3 replacement cards in a year and 10 in your lifetime. If you are under 18, the limits are higher. If you have reached your limit, the Social Security office will tell you and explain your options.

Getting a card if you were born outside the United States

You can get a Social Security card if you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), have a valid work visa, or have another immigration status that allows you to work in the United States. You will need to bring your immigration document along with proof of identity and age.

If your immigration status has changed or expired, contact Social Security to find out whether you still meet the requirements. The rules vary depending on your visa type and work authorization status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit the Twin Cities Card Center in person to get a card?

No. The card center only manufactures cards; it does not accept requests from the public. You must request your card through a Social Security field office, by mail, or online. Once approved, your card is produced at this facility and mailed to you.

How long does it take to get a Social Security card?

After your local Social Security office processes your request, production and mailing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks. If documents need to be verified or corrected, it may take longer. Contact your local office if you have not received your card within 3 weeks.

What if I need my card urgently?

Social Security does not offer expedited card production. However, you can get a letter from your local Social Security office stating that you have applied for a card, which some employers or agencies will accept as temporary proof. Ask your local office whether this option is available for your situation.

Can I request a card online if I live in the Twin Cities service area?

Yes, if you have a my Social Security account and meet certain requirements. You can create an account at ssa.gov and submit your request online. Your card will still be produced at the Twin Cities Card Center and mailed to you.

What happens if my card arrives damaged or with errors?

Contact your local Social Security office immediately. Bring the damaged card and your proof of identity. They will submit a replacement request, and your new card will be produced and mailed to you at no cost.