Which form you need depends on what you're doing with Social Security
Social Security uses different forms for different reasons — applying for retirement, reporting a death, changing your address, or requesting a replacement card. The form you fill out depends on what you want to do, not on who you are. This guide explains the main forms, what each one is for, and where to get them.
All Social Security forms are free. You can get them online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or in person at your local Social Security office. Many forms can be filled out and submitted online through your my Social Security account, which saves time and reduces errors.
Key Takeaways
- Form SS-5 is for getting a new or replacement Social Security card; you can apply online, by mail, or in person depending on your state.
- Form SSA-1 is used to report a death to Social Security; the funeral home often handles this, but you can also submit it yourself.
- Form SSA-7 is for changing your name, address, or other personal information in Social Security's records.
- You can create a my Social Security account online to view your earnings record, request a replacement card, and handle some changes without filling out paper forms.
- Social Security accepts forms by mail, in person, or online depending on the form and your situation; check ssa.gov to see which method is fastest for your need.
Form SS-5: Applying for or replacing a Social Security card
Form SS-5 is the official application for a Social Security card — whether you're getting one for the first time, replacing a lost or stolen card, or correcting information on an existing card. You need to show proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of age. The exact documents accepted vary by state.
You can apply online at ssa.gov if you are a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, have a valid state-issued ID, and have a Social Security number already. If you don't meet those conditions, you'll need to apply by mail or visit a Social Security office in person. Processing time is usually two to four weeks by mail, though some states offer faster in-person service.
If you're applying for a replacement card because yours was lost or stolen, you can request it online through my Social Security without printing and mailing a form. If you need to correct the name or other information on your card, you'll need to submit Form SS-5 with documents proving the correct information.
Form SSA-1: Reporting a death to Social Security
Form SSA-1 notifies Social Security that someone has died. This stops their benefits, prevents overpayments to their account, and allows family members to receive survivor benefits if they're may have access to to them. The funeral home often submits this form on behalf of the family, but you can also submit it yourself.
You'll need the person's Social Security number, date of birth, and date of death. If you're submitting the form yourself, you can mail it to your local Social Security office or bring it in person. You don't need to provide a death certificate with the form, though Social Security may ask for one later to verify the death.
Report the death as soon as possible after it happens. Delaying the report can result in overpayments — money sent to the deceased person's account that the family may be required to repay. If the person was receiving benefits, their final check may be returned automatically, but notifying Social Security directly ensures the account is closed properly.
Form SSA-7: Changing your name, address, or other personal information
Form SSA-7 is used to update your records with Social Security — changing your name, address, phone number, or correcting other personal details. You can submit this form by mail or in person at a Social Security office. Some changes, like updating your address, can also be made through your my Social Security account online.
If you're changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you'll need to provide a document proving the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Social Security will update your records and issue a new card with your new name at no cost.
Updating your address with Social Security is important if you move, because it ensures you receive any notices or correspondence at your current location. You can change your address online through my Social Security, by phone, by mail, or in person — the online method is usually fastest.
Form SSA-1696: Authorizing someone to represent you
Form SSA-1696 appoints a representative — a lawyer, advocate, or trusted person — to act on your behalf with Social Security. This is useful if you're applying for disability benefits, appealing a decision, or need help managing your account but can't do it yourself.
The representative can request information, submit forms, and communicate with Social Security on your behalf. You remain in control — the representative works for you, not for Social Security. Both you and your representative must sign the form, and Social Security must approve it before the representative can act.
You can revoke this authorization at any time by submitting a written request to Social Security. If you're working with a lawyer on a disability case, they will usually handle getting Form SSA-1696 signed and submitted as part of their representation.
Using my Social Security to avoid paper forms
Creating a my Social Security account at ssa.gov lets you handle many tasks online without printing or mailing forms. You can view your earnings record, request a replacement card, change your address, and check the status of any pending applications or requests.
To create an account, you'll need a valid email address and a way to verify your identity — usually a state ID number or passport number. The verification process takes a few minutes. Once your account is set up, you can log in anytime to manage your Social Security information.
Not all tasks can be done online. If you need to report a death, authorize a representative, or make changes that require documents (like a name change), you'll still need to submit a paper form or visit an office in person. Check ssa.gov to see which method works for your specific need.
Where to get Social Security forms and how to submit them
All Social Security forms are available free on ssa.gov. You can view them online, print them, or order them by mail. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 to request forms by mail — they'll arrive in about one week.
Once you've filled out a form, you can submit it by mail to your local Social Security office, in person at an office, or online if the form supports it. Check the form's instructions to see which submission methods are accepted. Mailing usually takes two to four weeks; in-person submission is often faster.
If you need help filling out a form or understanding which form to use, you can call Social Security's main number or visit an office in person. Social Security staff can answer questions about forms and help you understand what information you need to provide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fill out a Social Security form online and submit it electronically?
Some forms can be completed and submitted online through my Social Security or ssa.gov, but not all. Form SS-5 for a replacement card can be done online if you meet certain conditions. Form SSA-1 for reporting a death and Form SSA-7 for address changes typically require mail or in-person submission, though you can check ssa.gov for current options.
How long does it take to get a replacement Social Security card?
By mail, replacement cards usually arrive in two to four weeks. Some states offer faster in-person service at Social Security offices. If you apply online through my Social Security, processing time is similar. Expedited options may be available in your state — call 1-800-772-1213 to ask.
What if I don't have all the documents Social Security is asking for?
Contact your local Social Security office to discuss what you have and what alternatives might work. Social Security sometimes accepts different documents than the standard list, or can help you understand how to get the documents you need. Bring whatever you have when you visit or call.
Do I need to notarize a Social Security form?
Most Social Security forms do not require notarization. Form SSA-1696 (authorizing a representative) does require both your signature and the representative's signature, but not a notary. Check the form's instructions to see if notarization is needed for your specific form.
What happens if I submit the wrong form?
Social Security will contact you to let you know you submitted the wrong form and will tell you which form you need instead. It's better to submit something than to delay — if you're unsure which form to use, call 1-800-772-1213 and ask before you submit.