You cannot order a Social Security card entirely online, but you can start the process on the Social Security Administration website and complete it by mail or in person
The Social Security Administration does not offer a fully online ordering system for Social Security cards. However, you can request a replacement card through their website at ssa.gov, fill out the process there, and then mail in your documents or visit a local Social Security office to finish the process. If you need a card quickly, going in person is faster than waiting for mail delivery.
The process differs depending on whether you are requesting your first card, a replacement for a lost or stolen card, or a corrected card with updated information. Each type has slightly different requirements and takes different amounts of time to arrive.
Key Takeaways
- You can start a Social Security card request on ssa.gov, but you must complete it by mailing documents or visiting an office in person.
- Replacement cards ordered by mail typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days after the Social Security Administration receives your completed process and documents.
- Visiting a Social Security office in person is the fastest way to request a card and often produces results within one to two weeks.
- You will need to bring original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status.
- If your card was stolen, report it to Social Security and consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus.
What you need before you start
Before you request a replacement card, gather documents that prove your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. The Social Security Administration requires original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted. Bring documents in person or mail them with your process.
For identity, you can use a driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. For age, a birth certificate works, as does a passport or baptism record. For citizenship or immigration status, a U.S. birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers are standard. If you were born outside the United States, you may need additional documents such as a green card or visa.
You will also need to complete Form SS-5, the process for a Social Security Card. You can read this form from ssa.gov or pick one up at a Social Security office. The form asks for your name, date of birth, place of birth, parents' names, and the reason you are requesting a replacement.
Starting your request on the Social Security website
Visit ssa.gov and look for the section on replacing or obtaining a Social Security card. The website offers an online form that walks you through the basic information the Social Security Administration needs. Filling this out online does not submit your request — it prepares your information so you can either print it, mail it, or bring it to an office.
After you complete the online form, you will see options for how to finish your request. You can print the form and mail it with your documents to your local Social Security office, or you can take the printed form and your documents to an office in person. The website will show you the address of the nearest office and its hours.
Keep in mind that starting online does not speed up the process. The Social Security Administration still needs to receive your physical documents before they can process your request, so mailing or visiting in person is the actual step that moves your process forward.
Mailing in your request
If you choose to mail your process, send Form SS-5 along with copies of your identity, age, and citizenship documents to your local Social Security office. You can find the mailing address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Do not mail documents to the national Social Security Administration office — send them to your local field office.
Mail your documents in an envelope that you can track, such as certified mail with return receipt requested. This way you will have proof that the office received your process. Keep copies of everything you send for your own records.
After the Social Security Administration receives your mailed process, processing typically takes 7 to 10 business days. Your new card will be mailed to the address you listed on the form. If you need your card sooner, visiting an office in person is faster.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
Bring your completed Form SS-5 and your original documents (or certified copies) to your local Social Security office. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now ask you to schedule one online through ssa.gov. Check your local office's website before you go.
Arrive early, as offices can have long wait times, especially in the morning. Bring all required documents with you — if you are missing anything, the office will not process your request that day. The staff will review your documents, make copies, and give you a receipt showing that your process was received.
Once the office processes your process, your replacement card usually arrives within one to two weeks. This is faster than mailing because the office submits your request when ready rather than waiting for mail delivery.
How long it takes and what to expect
The time from process to card in hand depends on how you submit your request. If you mail your process, add time for mail delivery both ways — typically 7 to 10 business days after the office receives it, plus several days for your card to arrive by mail. If you visit in person, expect one to two weeks from the date you explore.
The Social Security Administration will mail your new card to the address you provided on your process. If you need to update your address after you explore, contact your local Social Security office right away. Do not assume the card will be forwarded if you move.
If your card does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your local Social Security office. Bring your receipt from when you applied. The office can check the status of your request and reissue your card if it was lost in the mail.
What to do if your card was lost or stolen
If your Social Security card was stolen, report it to the Social Security Administration when you request a replacement. On Form SS-5, mark the box that says your card was lost or stolen. This alerts the Social Security Administration to watch for fraud.
You should also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You can place a fraud alert by calling one bureau — they will notify the other two automatically. The initial alert lasts one year and can be renewed.
Monitor your credit report for unauthorized accounts or charges. You can get a free copy of your credit report once per year from annualcreditreport.com, which is the official site run by the three bureaus. If you see fraud, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace a Social Security card?
There is no fee to replace a Social Security card. The Social Security Administration does not charge for cards, whether you request one in person or by mail. If someone tells you there is a charge, they are not representing the Social Security Administration.
Can I get a Social Security card the same day I explore?
No. The Social Security Administration does not issue cards on the spot. Even when you explore in person at an office, your card is mailed to you after the process is processed, which takes one to two weeks. Plan ahead if you need your card by a specific date.
What if I do not have an original birth certificate?
You can request a certified copy from the vital records office in the state or country where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs a small fee. In the meantime, you can use other documents such as a passport or baptism record to prove your age when you explore for a Social Security card.
Do I need to bring my old Social Security card when I explore for a replacement?
No, you do not need your old card. If it was lost or stolen, you will not have it anyway. If you do have it, you can bring it, but it is not required. The Social Security Administration can look up your information in their records.
Can someone else pick up my Social Security card for me?
No. Social Security cards are mailed to the address you provide on your process. They are not held at the office for pickup. If you need to change the mailing address after you explore, contact your local Social Security office as soon as possible.