A replacement Social Security card costs nothing
The Social Security Administration does not charge you to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Social Security card. There is no fee, no process cost, and no hidden charge. You can request a replacement card at no cost whether you need it for the first time or the tenth time.
The only costs you might encounter are indirect ones: getting the documents you need to prove your identity, citizenship, or age. A certified birth certificate, for example, costs money from your state's vital records office. But the card itself is free.
Key Takeaways
- The Social Security Administration charges zero dollars for a replacement card, no matter how many times you need one.
- You may need to pay for supporting documents like a birth certificate or state ID, which vary by state but typically cost $10 to $30.
- You can request a replacement card in person at a Social Security office, by mail, or online through my Social Security if you have an account.
- Processing time ranges from one to two weeks for in-person requests and two to four weeks for mail requests.
- Beware of third-party websites that charge fees to help you request a card — the Social Security Administration's own services are always free.
What documents you need to bring
To get a replacement card without paying a fee, you need to prove three things: your identity, your citizenship or legal residency, and your age. The Social Security Administration accepts specific documents for each category.
For identity, bring a current state driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For citizenship, bring your original birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. For age, any of those same documents work. If you do not have an original birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from your state's vital records office — this is where you will pay money, typically $10 to $30 depending on your state.
If you cannot find originals, bring documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or school records. The Social Security office staff can tell you on the phone whether what you have will work before you make the trip.
Three ways to request a replacement card
In person at a Social Security office. This is the fastest route. Find your local office on the Social Security Administration website, call ahead to confirm hours, and bring your documents. You will fill out Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) on site. The office staff will review your documents, take your process, and tell you when to expect your card in the mail — usually one to two weeks.
By mail. read Form SS-5 from the Social Security Administration website, fill it out, and mail it with copies of your documents to your local Social Security office. Include a cover letter with your phone number. Processing takes two to four weeks. This route works if you cannot visit an office in person, but it is slower and you cannot ask questions if something is unclear.
Online through my Social Security. If you have a my Social Security account, you can request a replacement card online without visiting an office or mailing documents. You will need to verify your identity using information from your credit report or by answering security questions. This is the fastest option — your card typically arrives in one to two weeks. Not everyone can use this method; the Social Security Administration will tell you whether you are may be able to access when you log in.
What happens after you submit your request
Once the Social Security Administration receives your process, they verify your documents and process your request. You do not need to do anything else. The card will arrive by mail at the address you provided, usually within one to two weeks if you applied in person or online, or two to four weeks if you mailed your process.
If there is a problem with your documents or process, the Social Security office will call you. Keep your phone number current on your process. If you do not hear anything within the expected timeframe, call your local Social Security office to check the status.
Avoiding scams and third-party fees
Many websites offer to help you request a Social Security card for a fee — usually $50 to $200. These are not affiliated with the Social Security Administration. You do not need to pay anyone to request a card. The Social Security Administration's own services — whether in person, by mail, or online — are always free.
If a website asks you to pay to request a card, or promises to speed up the process for a fee, it is a scam. Go directly to the Social Security Administration's official website (ssa.gov) or call 1-800-772-1213 to request your card at no cost.
Replacement cards for children and non-citizens
Children can get replacement cards for free using the same process as adults. A parent or guardian brings the child's documents and fills out Form SS-5. Children under 18 do not need to be present.
Non-citizens with a valid visa, work permit, or green card can also request a replacement card at no cost. Bring your immigration documents along with proof of identity and age. The process is the same as for citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
One to two weeks if you explore in person or online, two to four weeks if you mail your process. The Social Security Administration will tell you the expected date when you submit your request. If you do not receive your card within that timeframe, call your local office to check on it.
Can I get a replacement card the same day?
No. The Social Security Administration does not issue cards on the spot. You will always receive your card by mail after processing. The fastest option is explore in person or online, which typically takes one to two weeks.
What if I lost my card and need it urgently?
You can request a replacement card when ready, but you will have to wait for it to arrive. In the meantime, you can use a Social Security number verification letter from the Social Security Administration for some purposes. Call 1-800-772-1213 to ask whether a verification letter will work for what you need.
Do I have to pay if I request a card online?
No. Requesting a card through my Social Security is free, just like requesting in person or by mail. The Social Security Administration never charges for this service, regardless of how you request it.
What if my documents are from another country?
The Social Security Administration accepts documents from other countries if they are official and show your name, date of birth, and citizenship or immigration status. Bring originals if possible. If your documents are in another language, bring the original and an English translation certified by a translator.