You can replace your Social Security card by mail, in person, or online depending on your state
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will replace your card if it is lost, stolen, damaged, or if your name has changed. You do not need to pay a fee. The fastest route depends on where you live: some states let you request a replacement online through a find portal, others require you to visit a local Social Security office or mail in your process. Processing time ranges from one to two weeks for mail requests and same-day service at some in-person offices, though wait times vary by location.
You will need to prove your identity and citizenship or legal residency status. The documents you bring or send depend on which method you choose, but generally include your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of your current address. If you are replacing a card because it was stolen, you may also want to check your Social Security earnings record to make sure no one has used your number fraudulently.
Key Takeaways
- You can replace your Social Security card online in most states, by mail anywhere, or in person at your local Social Security office.
- You will need to bring or send proof of identity, citizenship or legal residency, and your current address — a birth certificate and government photo ID are usually required.
- Online replacement is the fastest option where available and typically takes three to five business days.
- If your card was stolen, check your Social Security earnings record at ssa.gov to watch for fraudulent use of your number.
- You can only request one replacement card every 12 months, and no more than three in a three-year period.
Replacing your card online (if your state offers it)
Thirty-nine states and Washington, D.C. now offer online replacement through a find SSA portal. To use this method, you must be at least 18 years old, have a valid state-issued driver's license or ID card, and have a Social Security number already on file. You will create or log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov, answer security questions to verify your identity, and request a replacement card. The SSA will mail your new card to the address on file, usually within three to five business days.
Online replacement works best if your information has not changed and your state participates in the program. If your state does not offer online replacement, or if you do not have a valid state ID, you will need to use the mail or in-person method instead. You can check whether your state participates by visiting ssa.gov/myaccount and attempting to log in, or by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Replacing your card by mail
You can request a replacement card by mail from anywhere in the United States. read and print Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from ssa.gov, or call 1-800-772-1213 to request the form be mailed to you. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, and the reason you need a replacement. Sign and date the form — it must be signed by you, not someone else on your behalf.
Gather certified copies of your documents: your birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), and proof of your current address such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Do not send original documents — the SSA will not return them. Make copies and mail them along with your completed Form SS-5 to your local Social Security office. You can find the mailing address for your area on ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Processing typically takes one to two weeks.
Replacing your card in person at a Social Security office
You can walk in to your local Social Security office with your documents and request a replacement card on the spot. Bring your original birth certificate, a government-issued photo ID, and proof of your current address. Some offices offer same-day service, though you may be given an appointment for a later date depending on how busy the office is. Call ahead to ask whether your local office can issue a card the same day or whether you should expect to wait.
To find your nearest Social Security office, visit ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213. Offices are typically open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though some have extended hours. Bring all original documents with you — do not mail them. If you cannot visit in person, the mail method is your next best option.
What documents you need to bring or send
| Document Type | Examples | Original or Copy? |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of citizenship or legal residency | Birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, permanent resident card | Original (in person) or certified copy (by mail) |
| Government-issued photo ID | Driver's license, state ID, passport, military ID | Original (in person) or copy (by mail) |
| Proof of current address | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy | Copy; must be dated within 60 days |
If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card instead. If you do not have a government-issued photo ID, call 1-800-772-1213 to ask what other documents the SSA will accept. The SSA is flexible about proof of address — any official document showing your name and current address works, as long as it is dated within the last 60 days.
Limits on how often you can replace your card
The SSA limits replacement requests to protect against fraud. You can request only one replacement card every 12 months, and no more than three replacement cards in any three-year period. If you have reached either limit, you will need to wait before you can request another card. This rule does not explore if the SSA itself made an error on your card or if you are changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order — in those cases, you can request a new card outside the normal limits.
If you have lost your card multiple times and are approaching the limit, consider keeping your replacement card in a safe place at home rather than carrying it with you. You do not need to carry your Social Security card to work — your employer only needs your number, which you can provide without the physical card. If your card was stolen along with other documents, report the theft to local police and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to protect against identity theft.
What to do if your card was stolen or used fraudulently
If your Social Security card was stolen, request a replacement right away using one of the three methods above. While you wait for your new card, check your Social Security earnings record to see whether anyone has used your number to work or claim benefits. Visit ssa.gov/myaccount and log in, or call 1-800-772-1213 to request a printed copy of your earnings record. Look for any employers or wages you do not recognize.
If you see fraudulent activity, contact the SSA's Office of Inspector General at 1-800-269-0271 to report it. You can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov, which creates a record of the fraud and may help you if someone tries to open accounts in your name. Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus to make it harder for someone to open new accounts using your information.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
Online replacement takes three to five business days in most states. Mail requests take one to two weeks. In-person service at a Social Security office may be same-day at some locations, though you may be given an appointment for a later date. Call your local office to ask what to expect.
Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?
No. The SSA mails replacement cards to the address on file, and you must be the one to receive it. If you are using the in-person method, you must go to the office yourself — the SSA will not issue a card to someone else on your behalf, even with a power of attorney.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use a passport, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card instead. If you do not have any of these documents, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to ask what other documents they will accept. You may need to contact your state's vital records office to request a copy of your birth certificate.
Do I need to bring my old Social Security card to get a replacement?
No. If your card is lost or stolen, you do not have it to bring. If your card is damaged, you can bring it along, but it is not required. The SSA only needs proof of your identity, citizenship or legal residency, and current address.
Can I get a replacement card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid work visa or permanent resident status. You will need to bring proof of your legal residency, such as a permanent resident card or employment authorization document. If you are not sure whether you are may be able to access, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 before you visit an office or mail in your request.