Get a replacement card by visiting your local Social Security office or applying by mail
If your Social Security card is lost or stolen, you can replace it through the Social Security Administration (SSA). You have two main routes: visit a Social Security office in person, or submit an application by mail. The in-person route is faster — you can often walk out with a replacement card within two weeks. The mail route takes longer but works if you cannot get to an office.
You do not need to report the loss to police or to a credit bureau unless you believe someone has used your number fraudulently. A lost card by itself does not put your Social Security number at risk — the number stays the same whether the card exists or not. However, if you suspect theft or fraud, that is a separate step covered below.
Key Takeaways
- Visit your local Social Security office with proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of age to get a replacement card in person.
- You can also mail an application (Form SS-5) to your regional SSA office if you cannot visit in person.
- Replacement cards are free, and you can request a new one even if your old card was never damaged or lost — for example, if your name changed.
- A lost card does not automatically mean your Social Security number is compromised, but monitor your credit report if you suspect fraud.
- You can check your Social Security record online through your my Social Security account to verify your number has not been misused.
What documents you need to bring or submit
The SSA requires three types of documents to issue a replacement card: proof of citizenship, proof of identity, and proof of age. Proof of citizenship means a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. Proof of identity can be a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID — something with your photo and signature. Proof of age is usually your birth certificate, but a passport or baptism record works too.
If you are applying by mail, you will need to submit copies of these documents along with Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card). You can download the form from the SSA website or pick one up at a Social Security office. The SSA may ask for certified copies of some documents — a birth certificate certified by the vital records office in the state where you were born, for example.
If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation along with the original. If you cannot locate a required document, call your local Social Security office before you go — they can sometimes accept alternatives or help you figure out what to do next.
How to apply in person at a Social Security office
Find your local Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov and using the office locator, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now ask you to book a time slot online. Check your office's page to see whether appointments are required.
Bring your documents (originals, not copies) and arrive during business hours. The staff will review your documents, take your application, and give you a receipt. Most replacement cards arrive by mail within two weeks. If you need the card urgently — for example, to start a new job — tell the staff when you apply; some offices can issue a temporary card on the spot.
How to apply by mail
Download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or request one by phone at 1-800-772-1213. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Make copies of your required documents (citizenship, identity, and age). Do not send originals — the SSA will not return them.
Mail the completed form and copies to your regional Social Security office. The address is on the form itself, and it varies by state. Include a cover letter with your name and phone number so the SSA can contact you if they have questions. Mail takes longer than in-person application — expect four to six weeks for a card to arrive.
What to do if you suspect fraud or identity theft
If you believe someone has stolen your Social Security number and used it fraudulently, take these steps: First, check your Social Security record by creating or logging into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. This shows your earnings history and will alert you if someone has reported income under your number. Second, get your credit reports from all three bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at annualcreditreport.com and look for accounts you did not open.
If you find fraudulent activity, file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov. The FTC will create a recovery plan and give you a report you can share with creditors and banks. You can also file a police report in your local jurisdiction, though this is not always necessary for credit fraud. Keep copies of everything — the FTC report, police report, and any correspondence with creditors — in case you need to dispute charges later.
Replacing your Social Security card does not change your number, so it will not stop fraud on its own. The card replacement is about having a valid card for identification and employment. Stopping fraud requires working with creditors, the FTC, and sometimes law enforcement.
Replacing a card if your name has changed
If you got married, divorced, or legally changed your name, you can get a new card with your updated name. Bring the same three types of documents (citizenship, identity, age) plus legal proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The process is the same as replacing a lost card: visit an office in person or mail Form SS-5 with copies of your documents.
You will receive a new card with your new name but the same Social Security number. This is important for employment and tax records — your employer and the IRS need to know your name matches your number.
What happens if you cannot locate required documents
If you do not have a birth certificate or cannot find it, contact the vital records office in the state where you were born. Most states allow you to request a certified copy by mail or online, though there is usually a fee (typically $10 to $30). The process takes one to four weeks depending on the state. While you wait, you can still visit a Social Security office and explain the situation — staff may be able to accept an alternative document or help you figure out next steps.
If you do not have a passport or state ID, you can use other documents as proof of identity: a military ID, employee ID from a current or recent job, a school ID, a bank statement with your name and address, or a utility bill. The SSA accepts a wider range of documents than you might expect, so call ahead if you are unsure whether what you have will work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
In-person applications usually result in a card arriving within two weeks. Mail applications take four to six weeks. Some Social Security offices can issue a temporary card immediately if you need one for employment or another urgent reason — ask when you apply.
Do I have to pay to replace my card?
No, replacement Social Security cards are free. The SSA does not charge a fee for lost, stolen, or damaged cards, or for name changes.
Can I get a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
You can replace a card if you have a valid Social Security number and the proper immigration status. Bring your passport and immigration documents (visa, green card, work permit, or other proof of legal status) along with proof of age and identity. Call your local Social Security office before you go to confirm what documents they need.
What if I lost my card years ago and never replaced it?
You can request a replacement at any time. Bring the same documents (citizenship, identity, age) to your local office or mail Form SS-5. There is no time limit on replacement requests.
Will replacing my card change my Social Security number?
No. Your Social Security number stays the same for your entire life. A replacement card has the same number printed on it — only the card itself is new.