What Form SS-5 is and when you need it

Form SS-5 is the official Social Security Administration document you use to request a new Social Security card, replace a lost or stolen card, or correct information on an existing card. You fill it out, bring it to your local Social Security office with proof documents, and the SSA mails you a replacement card within two to four weeks.

You need this form if your card is missing, damaged, or has your name spelled wrong. You also use it if you've never had a Social Security number and need one for the first time — though the process for first-time applicants involves additional steps and documents.

The form itself is straightforward: it asks for your name, date of birth, citizenship status, and the reason you're requesting a new card. The real work is gathering the documents the SSA requires to prove who you are and that the information on your current card (if you have one) is correct.

Key Takeaways

  • Form SS-5 is available free on the Social Security Administration website or at your local Social Security office, and you can fill it out before you go in.
  • You must bring original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, age, and citizenship — a driver's license, passport, or birth certificate are the most common.
  • You cannot mail Form SS-5 to the SSA; you must submit it in person at a Social Security office, though you can call ahead to schedule an appointment.
  • Replacement cards typically arrive within two to four weeks, and you do not need to pay any fee.
  • If you're applying for a Social Security number for the first time, you'll need additional documents proving work authorization or immigration status.

Where to get Form SS-5 and how to fill it out

You can download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov and print it at home, or pick up a copy at your local Social Security office. The form is also available in multiple languages on the SSA website. Filling it out takes about five minutes — the questions are direct and the form includes instructions for each section.

Print clearly or type the form. Write your full legal name (the one on your birth certificate), your date of birth, and your current address. In the "Reason for Requesting" section, check the box that matches your situation: you're replacing a lost or stolen card, your card is damaged, your name has changed, or you need a first-time card.

If you're correcting information on your card — such as a misspelled name or wrong date of birth — note that in the reason section and be ready to explain the error when you submit the form. Bring documentation showing what the correct information should be.

Documents you must bring to the Social Security office

The SSA requires you to show proof of identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. You do not need all three types of documents — one strong document often covers multiple requirements. Acceptable documents include:

  • A current driver's license or state ID card (covers identity and age)
  • A U.S. passport (covers identity, age, and citizenship)
  • A birth certificate issued by a state vital records office (covers age and citizenship)
  • A foreign passport with a U.S. visa or travel stamp (covers identity and immigration status)
  • An employment authorization document (EAD) or green card (covers immigration status)

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your document is in a language other than English, bring the original and an official English translation. The SSA office can make copies of your documents while you're there, so you don't lose the originals.

If you're applying for a first-time Social Security number, you'll also need to show work authorization. This might be a green card, an employment authorization document, a visa, or a birth certificate if you're a U.S. citizen. The exact documents depend on your immigration status, so call your local Social Security office before you go in to confirm what they need.

How to submit Form SS-5 at a Social Security office

You must submit the form in person — the SSA does not accept mailed or emailed Form SS-5. Find your local Social Security office on ssa.gov/locator, which shows office addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Many offices now let you schedule an appointment online or by phone, which can reduce your wait time.

Bring the completed Form SS-5, your documents, and your current Social Security card if you have one. If you don't have a card, bring any document showing your Social Security number — a tax return, a W-2, or a bank statement will work. The office staff will review your form and documents, make copies, and give you a receipt showing when your new card should arrive.

The entire process at the office usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You do not need to make an appointment in most cases, but calling ahead can tell you whether the office is busy and whether walk-ins are being seen that day.

Timeline and what happens after you submit

After you submit Form SS-5, the SSA mails your new card to the address you provided on the form. Standard delivery takes two to four weeks. You do not need to do anything else — the card arrives in a plain envelope with no tracking number, so check your mail regularly.

If you need the card urgently for work or another reason, ask the office staff whether expedited processing is available in your area. Some offices can speed up the process, though this is not may provide and varies by location.

If your card doesn't arrive within four weeks, call the Social Security office where you submitted the form. Have your receipt handy — it has a reference number that helps them track your request. They can check the status and reissue the card if it was lost in the mail.

Special situations: name changes, corrections, and first-time applicants

If you're changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you'll still use Form SS-5, but you must bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will issue a new card with your updated name at no cost.

If the information on your current card is wrong — your birth date is incorrect, your name is misspelled, or your citizenship status changed — use Form SS-5 to request a correction. Bring documents proving what the correct information should be. Corrections are free and usually processed at the same speed as replacements.

First-time applicants (including children) need Form SS-5 plus additional proof of work authorization or citizenship. Infants and children need a birth certificate, and if a parent is applying on their behalf, the parent must bring ID. Immigrants need a visa, green card, or employment authorization document. Call your local Social Security office before applying to confirm the exact documents needed for your situation.

What Form SS-5 does not cover

Form SS-5 is only for getting a new card or correcting card information. It does not change your Social Security number itself — if you need a new number (which is rare and requires a separate process), you'll need to speak with an SSA representative in person about your specific situation.

The form also does not address issues with your Social Security record, such as earnings not being credited to your account or a name mismatch with your employer's records. Those issues require a different process and often involve contacting the SSA by phone or visiting an office to file a separate request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fill out Form SS-5 online and submit it electronically?

No. The SSA requires you to submit Form SS-5 in person at a Social Security office with original documents. You can fill out the form at home and bring it with you, which speeds up the process, but you must appear in person.

How much does it cost to get a replacement card?

There is no fee. Social Security cards are free. If someone charges you to help you get a card, that is a scam.

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

You can use other documents to prove age and identity, such as a driver's license, state ID, school records, or a medical record with your date of birth. Call your local Social Security office to ask which documents they will accept in your situation.

Can someone else submit Form SS-5 for me?

Generally no — you must appear in person. The exception is for children under 18, whose parent or guardian can submit the form on their behalf with the child's birth certificate and the parent's ID. For adults, only a court-appointed representative or guardian can submit on your behalf.

What if my name doesn't match my documents?

Bring all documents showing your name history — for example, a birth certificate with your original name and a marriage certificate showing your current name. The SSA will update your card to match your current legal name once you show the documents proving the change.