What to do if you don't know your Social Security number

If you need your Social Security number and don't have it memorized, the Social Security Administration (SSA) can look it up for you or issue a replacement card. You don't need to search online — there is no public database where you can look up a number. Instead, you contact SSA directly with proof of identity and citizenship, and they retrieve it from their records or print a new card.

The fastest route is to visit a local Social Security office in person with your documents. You can also request a replacement card by mail, which takes longer but requires no office visit. Online requests are available in some states through a limited program, but most people still use the office or mail route.

Key Takeaways

  • You cannot look up your Social Security number online through a public search — you must contact the Social Security Administration directly.
  • Visiting a local Social Security office with a government ID and proof of citizenship is the fastest way to get a replacement card or retrieve your number.
  • You can request a replacement card by mail using Form SS-5, which takes two to four weeks but requires no office visit.
  • Some states allow online replacement card requests through a limited program, but may be able to access depends on your state and whether you have a state ID or driver's license.
  • You will need original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, age, and citizenship — photocopies are not accepted.

Documents you need to bring or submit

The SSA requires proof of three things: your identity, your age, and your citizenship or immigration status. You must bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted, even if notarized.

For identity, bring a current government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For age, bring your birth certificate, passport, or adoption decree. For citizenship, bring your U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, or certificate of citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your immigration documents showing your legal status.

If you are applying by mail, you must send certified copies of these documents. You can request certified copies from the agency that issued them — your state vital records office for a birth certificate, your state DMV for a driver's license, or the USCIS for naturalization papers. The SSA will not accept documents you certify yourself.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

Walk into any Social Security office with your documents and tell the staff you need a replacement card or need to retrieve your number. You do not need an appointment in most offices, though some now use a call-ahead system — check your local office's website first to see if appointments are required or recommended.

Bring your original documents or certified copies. The staff will verify your identity and citizenship, look up your number in their system, and either give you a replacement card on the spot or tell you when to expect it in the mail. If your documents are in order, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

To find your nearest office, go to ssa.gov, click "Locations," enter your zip code, and call ahead to confirm hours. Some offices have reduced hours or limited services, so calling first saves a wasted trip.

Requesting a replacement card by mail

You can request a replacement card by mail using Form SS-5, the Application for a Social Security Card. Download it from ssa.gov or request a printed copy by calling 1-800-772-1213. Fill out the form, gather your documents, and mail everything to the address listed on the form — it varies by state.

Include certified copies of your identity, age, and citizenship documents. Do not send originals. The SSA will review your application, verify your information, and mail you a new card. Processing takes two to four weeks under normal circumstances, though it may take longer if the SSA needs to verify your documents with another agency.

You will receive a postcard when your card is mailed and another when it arrives. If you don't receive your card within the expected timeframe, call 1-800-772-1213 to check the status.

Online replacement through your state (limited availability)

A small number of states allow you to request a replacement card online through an SSA program called iSignUp. This option is available only if you are a U.S. citizen, have a current state driver's license or state ID card, and live in a participating state. As of now, participating states include Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, Virginia, and Washington, though this list changes.

To check if your state participates, go to ssa.gov and search for "iSignUp." If your state is listed, you can create an account, verify your identity using your state ID, and request a card online. The card will be mailed to you within two to four weeks. This route is faster than mailing Form SS-5 because you don't have to gather and mail physical documents.

If you've lost your card or it's damaged

A lost or damaged card is treated the same as a request for a replacement. You still need to prove your identity, age, and citizenship, and you still use the same three routes: visit an office, mail Form SS-5, or use iSignUp if your state participates.

You do not need to report the card as lost to the SSA — there is no "lost card alert" system. However, if you believe someone has stolen your number and is using it fraudulently, contact the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 to report it. They can flag your account and help you monitor for misuse.

What happens after you get your number or card

Once you have your Social Security number, write it down and store it somewhere safe — not in your wallet. You will need it to open a bank account, get a job, file taxes, or apply for government benefits. Keep your card in a safe place at home, not on you.

If you need to verify your number later without visiting an office, you can create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov. This online account shows your earnings record and lets you view your number anytime you log in. You will need an email address and a phone number to set up the account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I look up someone else's Social Security number?

No. The SSA will only provide a number to the person it belongs to, or to a legal representative with power of attorney. You cannot look up another person's number online or through the SSA, even if you are a family member or employer.

What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?

Contact your state vital records office to request a certified copy of your birth certificate. This usually costs $10 to $30 and takes one to two weeks by mail. If you were born outside the U.S., contact the country's vital records office or your nearest U.S. embassy. You must have one of the accepted documents — the SSA will not accept alternatives.

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

In-person visits result in a card mailed within one to two weeks. Mail requests take two to four weeks. Online requests through iSignUp also take two to four weeks. Delays happen if the SSA needs to verify your documents with another agency, which can add one to two weeks.

Do I have to pay for a replacement card?

No. The SSA does not charge for a replacement card or for looking up your number. However, you may pay to obtain certified copies of your birth certificate or other documents from the agencies that issued them.

What if my name has changed since I got my original card?

Bring your original card and documents proving the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will update your name in their system and issue a new card with your current name. Your Social Security number stays the same.