A new Social Security card costs nothing
The Social Security Administration does not charge you to get a new card. There is no fee, whether you are replacing a lost card, getting your first card, or updating information on an existing one. If someone tells you that you must pay to get a Social Security card, that is a scam.
You can get a replacement card by visiting your local Social Security office in person, by mail, or through an online request if you meet certain requirements. The only costs you might face are indirect ones — like the price of getting documents notarized or paying for certified copies of your birth certificate if you do not already have them.
Key Takeaways
- Social Security cards are always free from the Social Security Administration, with no hidden fees or charges.
- You may need to pay for supporting documents like a certified birth certificate or state ID, which are separate from the card itself.
- Beware of third-party websites or services that charge fees to help you get a card — the Social Security Administration does not endorse these services.
- You can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov if you have a My Social Security account and meet age and citizenship requirements.
What documents you need to bring
To get a new Social Security card, you will need to prove your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. The Social Security Administration accepts different documents depending on your situation. A state driver's license or passport works for identity. For age, a birth certificate is standard. For citizenship, a U.S. birth certificate or passport shows you are a citizen; a green card or work visa shows your immigration status.
If you do not have an original birth certificate, you can get a certified copy from your state's vital records office. This is where costs may appear — most states charge between $10 and $30 for a certified copy, depending on the state and how quickly you need it. You can order these by mail or in person at your local vital records office, and some states now offer online ordering.
Bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies. The Social Security office will not accept uncertified copies or photos of documents.
How to get a replacement card without paying
The fastest free route is to visit your local Social Security office in person. Bring your documents, fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), and submit it. You will receive your new card by mail within one to two weeks. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
If you cannot visit an office, you can mail your process and documents to your local Social Security office. The address is on the Social Security Administration website. Mail takes longer — typically three to four weeks — but costs only the price of postage. Use certified mail if you want proof of delivery.
If you are between 18 and 79, have a My Social Security account, and meet other requirements, you can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov. This is the fastest option and requires no visit or mail. You will need to verify your identity through an online process, and your new card will arrive by mail.
Scams that charge money for Social Security cards
Many websites claim they can get you a Social Security card faster or easier — for a fee. These are not affiliated with the Social Security Administration. Common scams charge $50 to $200 and promise expedited service, may provide approval, or a card delivered to your home. None of these are real services the Social Security Administration offers.
The Social Security Administration does not work with third-party companies to issue cards. It does not may provide approval, and it does not expedite cards for a fee. If a website asks you to pay to get a Social Security card, do not use it. Report the website to the Social Security Administration's Office of Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov or call 1-800-269-0271.
Legitimate Social Security services are always free and always come directly from the Social Security Administration or your local Social Security office.
What happens if you lose your card
Losing your Social Security card does not cost you anything to replace, but you should report the loss if you are concerned about identity theft. You do not have to report it to Social Security itself — the card has no value to anyone but you, since it is not a form of identification that proves who you are. However, if you think someone may have stolen it along with other personal information, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) for free.
To replace a lost card, follow the same process as getting a new card: visit your local Social Security office, mail in your process, or request one online if you are may be able to access. Bring the same documents you would for any replacement.
Replacing a card with a name change
If you have changed your name — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you will need a new Social Security card that reflects your current name. This is also free. You will need to bring proof of your legal name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need your current identity document and birth certificate, just as you would for any replacement.
The process is the same: visit an office, mail in your process, or request one online. There are no additional fees for a name change card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Social Security card the same day I explore?
No. The Social Security Administration does not issue cards on the spot. You will receive your card by mail within one to two weeks if you explore in person, or three to four weeks if you mail your process. Online requests also take one to two weeks. No paid service can speed this up.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can order a certified copy from your state's vital records office, which usually costs $10 to $30. If you were born outside the United States, you can use a passport or other document showing your age and citizenship status. Contact your local Social Security office to ask which documents they will accept in your specific situation.
Do I have to go to a Social Security office in person?
No. You can mail your process and documents, or request a replacement online if you are between 18 and 79 and have a My Social Security account. However, visiting in person is usually fastest and lets you confirm your documents are acceptable before you leave.
Is there a charge if I need my card urgently?
No. The Social Security Administration does not offer expedited service at any price. If you need proof of your Social Security number before your card arrives, you can print a replacement Social Security number document from your My Social Security account or visit an office to request one in person.
What should I do if a website charged me for a Social Security card?
Contact your credit card company or bank to dispute the charge. Report the website to the Social Security Administration's Office of Inspector General at oig.ssa.gov or call 1-800-269-0271. You can also file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.