What a Social Security card is and why you need one
A Social Security card is a physical card issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) that displays your nine-digit Social Security number. You need it to work legally in the United States, open a bank account, apply for credit, and file taxes. Most employers will ask to see it before your first day of work as proof you are authorized to work.
The card itself is not a form of identification — you cannot use it alone to board a plane or prove your identity to police. But the number on it is required for nearly every financial transaction and government record. If you were born in the U.S., you should have received one automatically as an infant. If you were not, or if you lost yours, you will need to request a replacement or a new card.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a Social Security card in person at your local Social Security office, by mail, or online through the SSA's website if you meet certain requirements.
- You will need to bring original or certified documents proving your age, citizenship or immigration status, and identity — the exact documents depend on which method you use.
- Processing times vary: online requests typically take 7 to 10 business days, mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks, and in-person requests are usually faster.
- Replacement cards are free, and you can request one even if your card was never lost — for example, if your name changed or if you want a corrected number.
- If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still get a Social Security card if you have a valid visa or work authorization document.
How to request a card in person at a Social Security office
Visiting your local Social Security office is often the fastest way to get a card. You will need to bring original documents or certified copies. For age, bring a birth certificate, passport, or state ID. For citizenship or immigration status, bring your U.S. birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, or visa and work authorization documents. For identity, bring a driver's license, state ID, passport, or other government-issued photo ID.
Call ahead or check the SSA website to find your nearest office and confirm their hours — many offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., but some have limited hours. Bring the original documents or certified copies (not photocopies). You will fill out Form SS-5 on site, and the office will take your documents and photograph. Most people receive their card within one to two weeks.
If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you. If you are applying for your first card and were born outside the U.S., you may need to bring additional documents proving your legal status — ask your local office what they require before you go.
Requesting a card by mail
You can mail your request to the SSA if you have certain documents. Download Form SS-5 from the SSA website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with certified copies of your documents to the address listed on the form. The address depends on which state you live in, so check the form carefully.
Mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks to process. Send your documents by certified mail with return receipt so you have proof they arrived. Do not send original documents — send certified copies only. The SSA will return your documents to you along with your new card.
You cannot request a card by mail if you are applying for your first card and were born outside the U.S., or if you are under 18. In those cases, you must visit an office in person.
Requesting a card online
The SSA now allows some people to request a replacement card online through their website. You must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and have a valid state-issued ID or passport. You will need to verify your identity using a video call with an SSA representative.
Online requests typically take 7 to 10 business days. You will create an account on the SSA website, answer security questions, and schedule a video appointment. During the call, you will show your ID to the camera, and the SSA will confirm your information. Your new card will be mailed to you after approval.
This option is not available to everyone — check the SSA website to see if you meet the requirements and whether online requests are currently available in your state.
What documents you need for each situation
| Your situation | Documents needed | Best method |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement card (lost, stolen, or damaged) | Photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) | Online, mail, or in person |
| Name change (marriage, divorce, court order) | Photo ID + proof of name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order) | In person or mail |
| First card as U.S. citizen born in U.S. | Birth certificate + photo ID | In person or mail |
| First card as non-citizen with work authorization | Passport or birth certificate + visa or work permit + photo ID | In person only |
| Corrected number or information | Photo ID + documents proving the error (birth certificate, previous card, court order) | In person |
How long it takes and what happens next
Processing times depend on how you request your card. Online requests take 7 to 10 business days. Mail requests take 2 to 4 weeks. In-person requests are usually processed within 1 to 2 weeks, though some offices can issue a temporary card on the spot.
The SSA will mail your new card to the address you provide on your application. If you do not receive it within the expected timeframe, contact your local Social Security office. If you need to work before your card arrives, ask your employer if they will accept a temporary card or a letter from the SSA confirming your number.
Once you receive your card, keep it in a safe place. You do not need to carry it every day — most places only need your number, not the physical card. If it is lost or stolen again, you can request another replacement free of charge.
Special situations: name changes, corrections, and non-citizens
If your name changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, you can request a new card with your updated name. Bring your photo ID, your current Social Security card (if you have one), and proof of the name change such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. You must apply in person or by mail.
If there is an error on your card — for example, your number is wrong or your birth date is incorrect — contact your local Social Security office. Bring your card, a photo ID, and documents proving what the correct information should be. Corrections are free and usually processed quickly.
If you are not a U.S. citizen but have a valid visa or work authorization document, you can get a Social Security card. You must apply in person at a Social Security office. Bring your passport, visa, work permit, or other immigration document, plus a photo ID. The SSA will verify your immigration status with the Department of Homeland Security before issuing your card.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I was born outside the U.S. but am now a citizen?
If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen, bring your naturalization certificate or passport showing your citizenship status along with your photo ID. You can apply in person or by mail. If you are applying for your first card, you must go in person.
Can I get a Social Security card if I am undocumented?
No. You must have a valid visa, work authorization document, or proof of U.S. citizenship. If you have a valid work permit or visa, you can apply in person at a Social Security office.
What if my child was born in the U.S. but I do not have their birth certificate yet?
Contact the vital records office in the state or county where your child was born to request a certified birth certificate. You will need this before you can request a Social Security card. The process usually takes 1 to 4 weeks depending on the state.
Do I need an appointment to visit a Social Security office?
Many offices now require appointments. Check the SSA website or call your local office to schedule one. Walk-ins are sometimes accepted, but you may wait several hours. Scheduling ahead is faster.
What if I need my card urgently for a job that starts soon?
Visit your local Social Security office in person — this is the fastest method. Some offices can issue a temporary card or letter confirming your number on the same day. Call ahead to ask what your office can do.