Get a replacement card by visiting your local Social Security office or applying by mail

A lost Social Security card is not an emergency — you can replace it without paying a fee, and you do not need the original card to prove your number. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will issue a replacement card in your name at no cost. You have three ways to request one: in person at a Social Security office, by mail using Form SS-5, or online through a my Social Security account if you have created one.

The fastest route is usually in person. Walk into your nearest Social Security office with proof of identity and proof of citizenship or legal residency, and you can often leave with a replacement card in hand or receive it by mail within one to two weeks. If you prefer to stay home, you can mail Form SS-5 with the same documents, though this takes longer — typically three to four weeks from the time SSA receives your envelope.

Key Takeaways

  • You can replace a lost Social Security card for free by visiting a Social Security office, mailing Form SS-5, or using your my Social Security account online.
  • Bring a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof you are a U.S. citizen or legal resident (birth certificate, passport, or green card).
  • In-person replacement usually takes one to two weeks; mailed applications take three to four weeks after SSA receives them.
  • You do not need your original card to prove your Social Security number — the SSA has your number on file and can verify it with your identity documents.

What documents you need to bring or send

The SSA requires two things: proof of your identity and proof of citizenship or legal residency. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of a government-issued photo ID — a driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID card all work. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two documents that show your name and other identifying information, such as a bank statement, utility bill, or lease.

For citizenship or residency, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, U.S. passport, green card, or visa. If you were born outside the United States, a foreign birth certificate is acceptable if it is certified. The SSA will not accept photocopies of these documents unless they are certified by the issuing agency.

If you are applying by mail, make copies of both documents and send them with Form SS-5. Do not send originals through the mail — send certified copies or photocopies certified by the issuing agency. Include a cover letter with your name, date of birth, and Social Security number so the SSA can match your application to your file.

Applying in person at a Social Security office

Find your nearest Social Security office on the SSA website or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment — most offices accept walk-ins, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Bring your identity document and proof of citizenship or residency in their original or certified form.

When you arrive, tell the receptionist you need a replacement card. A staff member will review your documents, confirm your information, and submit your application. If everything is in order, you will receive a receipt showing your application was processed. Most people receive their card by mail within one to two weeks; some offices can issue a card on the spot, though this is less common.

If you do not have all required documents, ask the office what alternatives they accept. Some offices will work with you if you bring partial documentation and can explain what you are missing.

Applying by mail using Form SS-5

Download Form SS-5 from the SSA website or request it by calling 1-800-772-1213. Fill out the form completely — include your full name, date of birth, place of birth, mother's maiden name, and Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last card was issued, explain the change and provide documentation (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Make photocopies of your identity document and proof of citizenship or residency. If these are not certified copies, have them certified by the issuing agency (your state's vital records office for a birth certificate, your local DMV for a driver's license, and so on). Mail the form and copies to the address listed on the form — this address varies by state.

The SSA typically processes mailed applications within three to four weeks of receiving them. Mail moves slowly, so add one to two weeks for delivery time. If you need the card urgently, applying in person is faster.

Using your my Social Security account to request online

If you have already created a my Social Security account on the SSA website, you can request a replacement card online without visiting an office or mailing documents. Log in to your account, go to the "Replacement Social Security Card" section, and follow the prompts. You will need to verify your identity using information the SSA already has on file.

Online requests are available to U.S. citizens age 18 and older who have a valid driver's license or state ID from a participating state. Not all states participate yet, so check the SSA website to see if yours does. If your state does not participate, use the in-person or mail method instead.

The SSA will mail your replacement card to the address on file. Delivery typically takes one to two weeks. This method is convenient if you have already set up a my Social Security account and your state participates in the program.

What to do while you wait for your replacement card

You do not need the physical card to use your Social Security number. Employers, banks, and government agencies can verify your number using your name and date of birth. If you need to prove your number to an employer before your replacement card arrives, ask your employer if they will accept a letter from the SSA confirming your number — you can request this by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting a Social Security office.

If you need to open a bank account or apply for credit while waiting, bring your application receipt from the SSA and your identity document. Most financial institutions will accept these as proof of your number. If a business refuses to proceed without the physical card, ask to speak with a manager — the card itself is not legally required for most transactions.

Keep your replacement card in a safe place once it arrives. Consider storing a copy of your Social Security number in a secure location separate from the card itself, such as a password manager or a locked drawer at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement card if I was not born in the United States?

Yes. Bring your foreign birth certificate (certified copy), your passport, green card, or visa along with a government-issued photo ID. The SSA verifies citizenship or legal residency status for all replacement requests, regardless of where you were born.

What if my name has changed since I got my last card?

Bring documentation of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your identity document and proof of citizenship or residency. The SSA will issue a new card in your current legal name. If you are applying by mail, include a copy of the name change document with Form SS-5.

How much does a replacement card cost?

There is no fee. The SSA issues replacement cards at no cost to you. If someone offers to charge you for a replacement card, they are running a scam — go directly to the SSA instead.

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

Yes, though it takes longer. Bring other proof of citizenship or residency such as a passport, green card, or visa. If you do not have any of these, contact your local Social Security office to discuss what documents you can provide — they may accept alternative forms of proof depending on your situation.

What if I lost my card and someone else might have it?

Request your replacement card through the normal process. The SSA does not flag lost cards or issue new numbers unless there is evidence of identity theft. If you suspect someone is using your number fraudulently, contact the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338 to report it and create a recovery plan.