What you need to bring to get a replacement card

You need proof of identity, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The Social Security Administration (SSA) accepts a limited list of documents for each category — a driver's license works for identity, but a library card does not. You do not need all three categories if you are replacing a card you already have; the SSA can verify your number from their own records.

Bring originals, not copies. The SSA will not accept photocopies or notarized copies of most documents. If you do not have an original, you will need to get one from the issuing agency first — your state's vital records office for a birth certificate, your state's motor vehicle department for a driver's license, your immigration attorney or USCIS for citizenship papers.

If you cannot read English or need an interpreter, bring someone who can translate. The SSA provides interpreters for some languages at some field offices, but calling ahead to confirm is safer than showing up and waiting.

Key Takeaways

  • You need an original government-issued ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and proof you are a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
  • The SSA can verify your Social Security number from their records, so you do not need a separate document proving it.
  • You can apply in person at your local Social Security office, by mail if you are over 18 and have a state-issued ID, or online if you meet specific requirements.
  • Processing takes about two weeks in person and four to six weeks by mail; online applications are fastest but have strict may be able to access rules.
  • You cannot get a replacement card by phone, email, or through a third-party service — only through the SSA directly.

Applying in person at a Social Security office

Walk into your local Social Security field office with your documents and a completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card). You can fill out the form there, but bringing it completed saves time. The office will take your documents, verify your information, and usually issue a replacement card on the spot or mail it within two weeks.

Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213. Many offices now use an online appointment system; you can book a time slot instead of waiting in line. Some offices still accept walk-ins, but call first to confirm hours and current wait times.

Bring the original documents themselves. Do not mail originals to the office; bring them in person so staff can see them and return them to you immediately.

Applying by mail

If you are 18 or older and have a state-issued ID (driver's license, state ID card, or passport), you can mail your application. Send Form SS-5, a copy of your ID, and proof of citizenship or legal residency to your local Social Security office. The address is on the form itself.

Processing takes four to six weeks. The SSA will mail your new card to the address you provide on the form. Do not send original documents by mail — send copies only, and keep the originals for your records.

If you are under 18, you cannot apply by mail; a parent or guardian must apply in person on your behalf.

Applying online through my Social Security account

The SSA offers online replacement card requests through my Social Security, their online account portal. You must be at least 18, have a state-issued ID, and have a Social Security number already on file. You also need a valid email address and a phone number where the SSA can reach you.

Create or log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount. Select "Replace your Social Security card" and follow the prompts. The SSA will verify your identity using information from their records and other government databases. If verification succeeds, your card ships within five to seven business days.

Online requests fail if the SSA cannot verify your identity through their system. If that happens, you will need to apply in person or by mail instead. The SSA will tell you which documents to bring or send.

Documents that prove identity

The SSA accepts a current, valid driver's license or state ID card as the primary proof of identity. A U.S. passport, military ID, or passport card also works. If you do not have any of these, the SSA has a longer list that includes documents like a school ID, employee ID, or health insurance card — but you will need two of them, and they must be current.

Expired documents do not work. If your driver's license expired more than a few months ago, renew it first at your state's motor vehicle department before going to the Social Security office.

Documents that prove citizenship or legal residency

A U.S. birth certificate is the most common proof of citizenship. You can get a certified copy from your state's vital records office (usually the county clerk or health department where you were born). An original or certified copy of a naturalization certificate also works, as does a U.S. passport.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you need proof of legal residency: a green card (Permanent Resident Card), an employment authorization document (EAD), or an unexpired visa with an I-94 arrival/departure record. If you have a visa, bring the passport it is stamped in as well.

Certified copies cost money — usually $10 to $30 depending on the state — and take one to three weeks to arrive by mail. Some vital records offices offer rush processing for an extra fee. If you need your card quickly, plan ahead or apply in person with whatever documents you have and ask the SSA what else you need.

What happens if you have changed your name

If you have changed your name since your Social Security number was issued, bring proof of the name change along with your other documents. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order changing your name all work. The SSA will issue a new card with your current legal name.

If you changed your name but did not update your Social Security record, the SSA will do that when you apply for the replacement card. Your new card will reflect the updated name.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

In person, usually two weeks or less. By mail, four to six weeks. Online through my Social Security, five to seven business days if your identity verifies successfully. Times vary by office and current processing volume.

Can I get a replacement card if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. You can use a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or visa with I-94 record instead. If you have none of these, contact your state's vital records office to order a certified birth certificate — it is the cheapest and most straightforward proof of citizenship.

What if I lost my Social Security card and do not know my number?

The SSA can look up your number using your name, date of birth, and place of birth. Bring your ID and proof of citizenship to a field office, and staff will find your number and issue a replacement card. You do not need a separate document proving your number.

Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?

No. You must pick it up yourself or have it mailed to your address. The SSA does not release cards to family members or representatives, even with written permission.

Do I need to replace my card if my name changed but my number stayed the same?

Yes. Your card must match your current legal name. Apply for a replacement using the process above, and bring proof of your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).