You can replace a lost or stolen Social Security card through the Social Security Administration, and you do not need to pay for it
A lost or stolen Social Security card does not automatically change your number or cancel your benefits. The card itself is just proof of your number — the number stays the same unless you request a new one for specific reasons (like identity theft affecting your credit). You can get a replacement card free of charge by visiting your local Social Security office, applying by mail, or in some states, applying online through your Social Security account.
The process is straightforward but takes time. You will need to prove your identity, citizenship or legal residency status, and age. Social Security does not charge for replacement cards, and you should be suspicious of anyone claiming otherwise.
Key Takeaways
- A replacement Social Security card costs nothing and can be ordered in person at your local Social Security office, by mail, or online in participating states.
- You will need to bring or submit proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of citizenship or legal residency, and proof of age.
- Replacement cards typically arrive within 7 to 14 days if you apply in person or online, or 2 to 4 weeks if you apply by mail.
- If your card was stolen and you suspect identity theft, contact the Social Security fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 and place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.
- You do not automatically need a new Social Security number unless identity theft has already damaged your credit or benefits.
How to replace your card in person
Visit your local Social Security office with the required documents. You can find the nearest office by going to ssa.gov and using the office locator, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Bring your original documents or certified copies — Social Security staff will not accept photocopies for proof of identity or citizenship.
The documents you need are: one form of photo ID (driver's license, passport, state ID, or military ID), proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), and proof of age (birth certificate or passport). If your name has changed since your original card was issued, bring documentation of the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will fill out Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) at the office. The replacement card usually arrives within 7 to 14 days. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but calling ahead can reduce wait times.
Applying by mail or online
If you cannot visit an office in person, you can mail your application. Download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out, and mail it with copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. Include a photocopy of your ID and proof of citizenship — the originals will be returned to you. Mail delivery typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.
In some states, you can create a my Social Security account online and request a replacement card without visiting an office or mailing documents. This option is available in a growing number of states but not all. Check ssa.gov to see if your state offers online replacement. If it does, you will upload photos of your documents through a secure portal, and the card will be mailed to you.
What to do if your card was stolen
If you believe your card was stolen rather than simply lost, take steps to protect your Social Security number from misuse. Call the Social Security fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271 to report it. Social Security staff can flag your account and watch for suspicious activity.
Contact all three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — and place a fraud alert on your credit file. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You can place an alert for free by calling any one of the three bureaus, and they will notify the others. You can also place a credit freeze, which is stronger protection but requires you to unfreeze your credit when you want to apply for new credit yourself. Check your credit report for accounts you did not open. You can view your credit report free once per year at annualcreditreport.com. If you see fraudulent accounts, dispute them with the credit bureau and the creditor directly.
When you might need a new Social Security number
You do not automatically need a new number just because your card was lost or stolen. A new number is only issued in specific situations: if identity theft has already caused serious damage to your credit or benefits, if you are a victim of domestic violence and need to hide your number for safety, or if you are experiencing ongoing fraud that cannot be stopped any other way.
If you believe you need a new number, visit your local Social Security office and explain the situation. Social Security staff will review your case and decide whether a new number is warranted. Getting a new number is complicated — it does not erase your old number from records, and you may have to update it with employers, banks, and other institutions. It is only done when other protections have failed.
Documents you need for replacement
| Category | Acceptable Documents |
|---|---|
| Photo ID | Driver's license, passport, state ID, military ID, tribal ID |
| Proof of Citizenship | Birth certificate, U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, Certificate of Citizenship |
| Proof of Age | Birth certificate, passport, adoption papers |
| Name Change (if applicable) | Marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order |
Documents must be originals or certified copies. Social Security will not accept photocopies of your ID or citizenship documents when you apply in person, though you can mail photocopies if you are applying by mail. If you do not have an original birth certificate, you can order one from your state's vital records office — each state charges a fee, typically between $10 and $30.
When you apply by mail, include photocopies of all documents, not originals. Social Security will return your originals to you once they have verified the copies. Keep copies of everything you send for your own records.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
If you apply in person or online, the card usually arrives within 7 to 14 days. If you apply by mail, allow 2 to 4 weeks. Times vary depending on your location and current processing volume at your local Social Security office.
Do I have to pay for a replacement card?
No. Social Security does not charge for replacement cards. If someone asks you to pay for a replacement, they are running a scam. The only cost is what you pay to obtain certified copies of documents like your birth certificate, which your state charges.
Can I get a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid work visa or green card. You will need to prove your legal residency status with documents like an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), green card, or visa. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a Social Security card.
What if I lost my card but do not know my Social Security number?
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 and explain that you lost your card. They can verify your identity over the phone and tell you your number. You can then proceed with ordering a replacement card in person, by mail, or online.
Will a new card have a different number on it?
No. A replacement card has the same number as your original card. The number does not change unless you request a new one for reasons like identity theft, and that is a separate process that requires approval from Social Security.