Where to request a replacement card

You can get a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration (SSA) in three ways: in person at your local Social Security office, by mail, or online through an SSA account. The online option is the fastest if you meet the requirements — you can request a replacement without leaving home and receive your card by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

To find your local Social Security office, visit ssa.gov and use the office locator tool. You can also call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to ask about hours and whether you need an appointment. Most offices now require appointments rather than walk-ins, so calling ahead saves a trip.

If you prefer to apply by mail, you can download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out, and mail it with your documents to your local office. The SSA website lists the address for your state. Mail applications typically take 2 to 4 weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • You can request a replacement card online, by mail, or in person, and online is usually fastest if you have a My Social Security account.
  • You must provide proof of identity (a driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of citizenship or legal residency (a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers).
  • The SSA does not charge a fee for a replacement card, but you must provide original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted.
  • If you are applying for someone else (a child or dependent), you must prove your relationship and bring documents for both people.
  • Your replacement card arrives by mail; you cannot pick it up in person at the office.

Documents you need to bring or send

The SSA requires two types of documents: proof of identity and proof of citizenship or legal residency. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of a driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID. A school ID, work ID, or credit card is not enough on its own.

For citizenship or residency, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or Permanent Resident Card (green card). If you were born outside the United States, you may also use a foreign birth certificate with an official English translation.

Original documents are preferred, but the SSA will accept certified copies — these are official copies with a raised seal or stamp from the issuing agency. Photocopies, even notarized ones, are not accepted. If you are applying in person, bring the originals; the SSA will return them to you. If you are applying by mail, send certified copies, not originals.

Applying online through My Social Security

To request a replacement card online, you need a My Social Security account. If you do not have one, you can create it at ssa.gov. You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a way to verify your identity — usually a credit report or answers to security questions based on your financial history.

Once your account is set up, log in and select "Replace your Social Security card" from the menu. Answer the questions about why you need a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged card, or name change). The system will tell you whether you are may be able to access to apply online. Some situations — such as applying for a card for the first time, needing a card with a new name, or being under 18 — require an in-person or mail application instead.

If you are may be able to access, you will receive a confirmation number. Your card will be mailed to the address on file with the SSA. You can check the status of your card by logging back into your account.

Applying in person at a Social Security office

Bring your completed Form SS-5, proof of identity, and proof of citizenship or residency to your local Social Security office. You can fill out the form ahead of time or ask the staff to help you fill it out when you arrive. Bring originals of your documents; the SSA will return them after making copies.

The office will take your application on the spot. You will receive a receipt showing your application was received. Your replacement card will be mailed to your address within 2 to 4 weeks. You cannot pick up the card at the office.

If you are applying for someone else — such as a child or a dependent adult — you must bring documents proving your relationship, such as a birth certificate, adoption papers, or court guardianship order. Bring identity and residency documents for both yourself and the person you are applying for.

Applying by mail

Download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to request a form by mail. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and gather certified copies of your identity and citizenship documents. Do not send originals — send only certified copies.

Mail your completed form and documents to the Social Security office that serves your area. The SSA website lists the mailing address for each state. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, phone number, and email address so the office can contact you if there are questions.

Mail applications take 2 to 4 weeks to process. You can track your application by calling 1-800-772-1213 and providing your Social Security number. The SSA will tell you the status and when to expect your card.

What to do if your card was lost or stolen

If your card was lost, you can request a replacement through any of the three methods above — online, by mail, or in person. You do not need to report the loss to the SSA first, though you may want to monitor your credit report to watch for fraud.

If your card was stolen or you suspect identity theft, check your credit report at annualcreditreport.com (the only free, official source). You can also place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus by calling Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

Request your replacement card as usual. The SSA does not charge extra for a replacement due to theft, and you do not need a police report to apply — though keeping one on file is a good idea for your records.

Replacement cards for children and dependents

You can request a Social Security card for a child or dependent if you are the parent, legal guardian, or authorized representative. You will need to prove your relationship with documents such as a birth certificate (for your child), adoption papers, or a court order establishing guardianship.

Bring identity and residency documents for both yourself and the child or dependent. If the child is old enough to sign, they should sign the application form. If not, you sign on their behalf. The card will be mailed to your address.

If a child's name has changed due to adoption, marriage, or a legal name change, you will need to provide the court order or other official document showing the new name. The SSA will issue a card with the updated name.

How long it takes and what happens next

Processing times depend on how you apply. Online applications are fastest — your card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. In-person applications take 2 to 4 weeks. Mail applications also take 2 to 4 weeks, sometimes longer if documents are missing or unclear.

Your replacement card will be mailed to the address on file with the SSA. If you have moved recently, update your address with the SSA before applying. You can update your address online through My Social Security, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a local office.

Once your card arrives, keep it in a safe place. The SSA recommends not carrying it in your wallet every day — store it at home and bring it only when you need to prove your Social Security number to an employer, bank, or government agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?

There is no fee. The SSA does not charge for replacement cards, whether you apply online, by mail, or in person. If someone offers to get you a replacement card for a fee, they are running a scam.

Can I get a replacement card the same day?

No. Even online applications take 7 to 10 business days for delivery. In-person and mail applications take 2 to 4 weeks. The SSA does not issue cards on the spot or offer expedited delivery.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You will need to obtain one first. Contact your state's vital records office for a birth certificate or your state's DMV for a passport. The SSA cannot issue a card without proof of citizenship or legal residency, and these documents are the most common forms of proof.

Can I apply for a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have legal residency status. Bring your Permanent Resident Card (green card), Employment Authorization Document, or other official proof of legal residency. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a Social Security card.

What if the SSA says I do not meet the requirements to apply online?

Some situations require in-person or mail applications — for example, if you are applying for a card for the first time, if your name has changed, or if you are under 18. Visit your local Social Security office or apply by mail using Form SS-5 instead.