You can order a replacement card by mail, online, or in person at a Social Security office
The fastest way to get a replacement Social Security card is to order it online through the Social Security Administration's website if you have a state-issued ID and a mailing address on file. If you do not have those, you can mail an process or visit a local Social Security office in person. Most people receive their card within two weeks of ordering, though mail delivery can add a few extra days.
You will need to prove your identity and citizenship or legal residency status. The documents you bring depend on which method you choose. There is no fee to replace a card.
Key Takeaways
- Online ordering through ssa.gov is the fastest method if you have a state-issued ID and a current mailing address.
- You can mail Form SS-5 to your local Social Security office if you prefer not to order online.
- Visiting a Social Security office in person works if you do not have the documents needed for online or mail ordering.
- You will need to show proof of identity and proof of citizenship or legal residency, which varies by method.
- Replacement cards are free and typically arrive within two weeks of your order.
Ordering online through the Social Security website
Go to ssa.gov and look for the "Order a Replacement Social Security Card" option. You will create a my Social Security account if you do not already have one. The website will ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your credit history or by uploading a photo of your state-issued ID.
You must have a current state driver's license or state ID card to order online. You also need a mailing address where the Social Security Administration can send your card. Once you complete the online form, you will receive a confirmation number. The card is mailed to the address you provided and usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
Mailing an process to your local Social Security office
read or request Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from the Social Security Administration. You can print it from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to ask for a form to be mailed to you. Fill out the form completely and gather the documents listed below.
Mail the completed form and your documents to your local Social Security office. You can find the address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Include a copy of your documents, not the originals. Mail delivery and processing usually take two to three weeks total. You will not receive a confirmation number when you mail an process, so keep a copy for your records.
What documents you need to bring or send
You must show proof of identity and proof of citizenship or legal residency. The Social Security Administration accepts different documents depending on which method you use.
| Type of Proof | Accepted Documents |
|---|---|
| Identity | State driver's license, state ID card, passport, military ID, or employee ID |
| Citizenship | U.S. passport, birth certificate, or Certificate of Naturalization |
| Legal Residency (if not a citizen) | Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Document, or visa with I-94 form |
If you are ordering online, you will upload a photo of your state ID. If you are mailing an process or visiting in person, bring originals or certified copies. The Social Security Administration will not return your documents, so do not send originals unless they are certified copies.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
Find your local Social Security office on ssa.gov. You can walk in during business hours, but calling ahead to ask about wait times is a good idea. Bring your proof of identity and proof of citizenship or legal residency documents with you.
A staff member will review your documents and fill out the process with you. You will receive a receipt with a confirmation number. Your card will be mailed to the address on file with Social Security, usually arriving within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your card urgently, ask the staff member whether expedited processing is available in your area.
What to do if you have lost or damaged your card
If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can order a replacement using any of the three methods above. You do not need to report a lost card to the Social Security Administration unless you are concerned about identity theft. If you think someone has used your number fraudulently, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to report it.
If your card is damaged but still readable, you can still use it. You only need to replace it if the number or your name is no longer clear. There is no limit to how many replacement cards you can order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
Online ordering and in-person visits usually result in your card arriving within 7 to 10 business days. Mailing an process takes longer because of mail delivery time — typically two to three weeks total. Actual delivery depends on your local mail service.
Can I get a replacement card with a different name?
Yes, but you will need to show proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring this document along with your identity and citizenship documents. The process is the same as ordering a replacement card.
What if I do not have a state ID or driver's license?
You cannot order online without a state-issued ID. You can mail an process or visit a Social Security office in person instead. Bring a passport, military ID, or other government-issued photo ID as proof of identity.
Is there a fee to replace a Social Security card?
No. The Social Security Administration does not charge for replacement cards. Be cautious of websites or services that claim to charge a fee — they are not affiliated with the Social Security Administration.
What if I never received my card after ordering?
Contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 with your confirmation number. They can check the status of your order and remail your card if needed. If you ordered online, you can also log into your my Social Security account to check the status.