Documents you'll need to bring

To get a new Social Security card, you need proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of your current address. The Social Security Administration (SSA) won't issue a card without all three, and they must be original documents or certified copies — photocopies don't work.

For citizenship, bring your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. For identity, a driver's license, state ID, or passport works. For your current address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address on it. If you don't have a current address document, you can bring a letter from a shelter, school, or government agency dated within the last 60 days.

If you're applying for a replacement card because yours was lost or stolen, you don't need extra documents beyond these three categories. If you're applying because your name changed — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the legal change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original or certified copies of proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of current address; photocopies are not accepted.
  • A driver's license, state ID, or passport satisfies the identity requirement; a utility bill or recent bank statement satisfies the address requirement.
  • If your name changed, bring the legal document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate.
  • You apply in person at your local Social Security office, and the card typically arrives by mail within two weeks.
  • You cannot apply by mail or online; you must visit an office, though you can make an appointment ahead of time through the SSA website.

Where and how to apply

You apply for a new Social Security card at your local Social Security office. You cannot apply by mail or online. Find your nearest office by visiting ssa.gov and using their office locator, or by calling 1-800-772-1213.

You can walk in during business hours, but making an appointment ahead of time is faster and avoids a wait. To schedule an appointment, go to ssa.gov/myaccount, create an account if you don't have one, and select "Request a replacement Social Security card" from the menu. You can also call the number above to book an appointment by phone.

Bring all your documents with you. The SSA staff will review them, take your photo if you're applying for the first time, and give you a receipt. The card itself is mailed to the address on file and usually arrives within two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

What happens if documents are missing or damaged

If you don't have an original or certified copy of a required document, you have options. For a birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the state or county where you were born — they can issue a certified copy by mail or in person. For a passport, apply through the State Department's passport office or an authorized acceptance facility. For a name-change document, contact the court that issued it.

If your documents are damaged but still readable, the SSA may accept them. Bring them anyway and let the staff decide. If they're too damaged, you'll need to get replacements from the issuing agency.

Getting certified copies takes time — usually one to four weeks depending on the agency and how you order. Plan ahead if you know you'll need a new card soon.

Fees and costs

There is no fee to get a new Social Security card. The SSA does not charge for replacements, name changes, or corrections to your record. If someone claims you must pay to get a card, they are running a scam.

You may have to pay to get certified copies of your birth certificate or other documents from the issuing agency, but that cost goes to that agency, not to Social Security. Birth certificate copies typically cost between $10 and $30 depending on the state.

Special situations: name changes and corrections

If your name changed through marriage, divorce, or court order, you can update your Social Security record and get a new card at the same time. Bring the legal document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The process is the same as getting a replacement card.

If you notice an error on your Social Security record — your name is spelled wrong, your date of birth is incorrect, or your citizenship status is listed incorrectly — you can correct it in person at your local office. Bring documents that prove what the correct information should be. Corrections don't cost anything and don't require a new card unless you want one.

If someone else has been using your Social Security number, contact the SSA immediately. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. The SSA can flag your account and help you report the fraud to other agencies.

What to do if you're applying for a child

If you're applying for a new card for a child under 18, you must go in person with the child. Bring the child's birth certificate, proof of the child's identity (such as a passport or school ID), and proof of your relationship to the child (such as a birth certificate showing you as the parent). You'll also need your own identity document.

If the child's parents are divorced or separated, the parent applying must have legal custody or written permission from the other parent. Bring custody papers if you have them.

Replacing a card that was lost or stolen

If your card was lost or stolen, report it to the SSA as soon as you realize it's gone. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office. You don't need to file a police report first, though you can if you want to. The SSA can flag your account to watch for fraud while you wait for your replacement card.

Getting a replacement card follows the same process as any other new card — bring your proof of citizenship, identity, and address. The SSA will issue a new card with a new number if fraud has already occurred, or the same number if the card was simply lost. In most cases, you keep the same number.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a new Social Security card?

The card typically arrives by mail within two weeks of your appointment. During busy periods or if there are issues with your documents, it can take longer. You'll receive a receipt at your appointment showing when to expect it.

Can I get a temporary card while I wait for the new one?

No. The SSA does not issue temporary cards. If you need proof of your Social Security number before the card arrives, you can print a statement from your ssa.gov account or call 1-800-772-1213 to request one by mail.

What if I was born outside the United States?

You'll need a passport, naturalization certificate, or green card as proof of citizenship. If you don't have one of these, contact the agency that issued your immigration documents. You'll also need the same identity and address documents as anyone else.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

You can walk in during business hours, but an appointment is faster and you'll wait less. To schedule one, visit ssa.gov/myaccount or call 1-800-772-1213. Most offices have same-week or next-week appointments available.

What if the SSA says my documents aren't acceptable?

The staff will tell you which document doesn't meet their requirements and what you need instead. You can get a replacement from the issuing agency and come back. Keep your receipt from your first visit — you may not need to schedule another appointment.