Where to request a new Social Security card

You can request a replacement Social Security card in three ways: online through the Social Security Administration website, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office. The online option is the fastest if you are may be able to access — it takes about 7 to 10 business days. Mail requests typically take 2 to 4 weeks. In-person visits at an office can sometimes be completed the same day, though wait times vary by location.

Not everyone can use the online method. You must have a valid state-issued ID, a Social Security number on file, and a U.S. mailing address. If you do not meet these requirements, you will need to use the mail or in-person route instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You can order a replacement card online at ssa.gov/myaccount if you have a valid state ID and a U.S. address, and the card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days.
  • By mail, you need to complete Form SS-5, include proof of identity and citizenship, and mail it to your local Social Security office — this takes 2 to 4 weeks.
  • In-person visits require the same documents as the mail route but may be faster depending on office wait times.
  • You do not need to pay a fee for a replacement card; the Social Security Administration issues them at no cost.
  • If you have changed your name, you will need to provide legal documentation of the name change along with your other proof documents.

What documents you need to bring or send

The documents required depend on which method you choose. For the online route, you only need to verify your identity through your state ID and answer security questions. For mail or in-person requests, you must provide proof of identity and proof of citizenship or legal status.

Acceptable proof of identity includes a valid driver's license, state ID card, passport, or military ID. Proof of citizenship can be an original or certified birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. If you were born outside the United States and do not have a passport or naturalization document, you may be able to use a consular report of birth or a certificate of citizenship.

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted at in-person visits. If you are mailing documents, send certified copies, not originals, because the Social Security Administration will not return them to you.

Ordering online through your Social Security account

To order online, go to ssa.gov/myaccount and sign in or create an account. You will need an email address and a phone number to set up the account. Once you are logged in, select "Replacement Social Security Card" from the menu.

You will be asked to verify your identity using your state-issued ID. The system will ask for your ID number and other information from the card. After verification, you will confirm your mailing address and submit your request. The card will be mailed to the address you provide, and you can track its status through your account.

If the online system tells you that you are not may be able to access, it means one of your documents does not match the records the Social Security Administration has on file, or you do not have a valid state ID. In that case, use the mail or in-person method instead.

Mailing your request with Form SS-5

To request a card by mail, download or print Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, and the reason you need a replacement card.

Attach certified copies of your proof of identity and proof of citizenship to the form. Do not send originals. Include a cover letter with your name and phone number so the Social Security Administration can contact you if there are questions. Mail the packet to the Social Security office that serves your area — you can find the address on the form itself or by searching your zip code on ssa.gov.

Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks from the date the office receives your request. If you do not hear back within that time, call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to check the status of your request.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

To visit an office, find the location nearest you at ssa.gov/locator. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require an appointment. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Bring your original or certified proof of identity and proof of citizenship documents.

Bring the documents in person — do not mail them ahead. The office staff will review them, make copies if needed, and process your request. In many cases, you can receive your card the same day or within a few days, though this varies by office and how busy they are.

Wait times at Social Security offices can be long. Calling ahead to schedule an appointment usually means a shorter wait than walking in without one.

What to do if your name has changed

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you will need to provide legal documentation of the change along with your other proof documents. Acceptable documents include a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

When you fill out Form SS-5 or apply online, list both your old name and your new name. The Social Security Administration will update your record and issue a card with your current name. This process takes the same amount of time as a standard replacement request.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?

There is no fee. The Social Security Administration issues replacement cards at no cost to you. If someone offers to charge you for a Social Security card, they are running a scam.

Can I get a card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a valid work visa or other legal immigration status. You will need to provide your immigration documents along with proof of identity. Undocumented immigrants cannot get a Social Security card.

What if I lost my card and need it urgently?

The online method is fastest at 7 to 10 business days. If you need proof of your Social Security number before the card arrives, you can print a replacement Social Security number verification letter from your ssa.gov account, which many employers and banks will accept.

Can someone else request a card on my behalf?

No. You must request the card yourself, either online, by mail with your signature, or in person. A representative can accompany you to an office, but you must be present and sign the form.

What if the Social Security Administration says my documents do not match their records?

Call 1-800-772-1213 and ask why the documents were rejected. Common reasons include a name mismatch or a birth certificate that does not match the name in the system. The office can tell you what additional documents might resolve the issue.