You cannot explore for a Social Security card entirely online
The Social Security Administration does not offer a fully online process process for a Social Security card. You will need to visit a Social Security office in person at least once, because the agency requires you to show original documents and prove your identity face-to-face. However, you can prepare your process online, gather the right documents beforehand, and in some cases request a replacement card by mail if you already have one.
The path you take depends on whether you are explore for your first card, replacing a lost or stolen card, or correcting information on an existing card. Each situation has different document requirements and different options for how much you can do without visiting an office.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Social Security office in person to explore for a new card, because the agency requires original documents and identity verification that cannot happen online.
- You can use the Social Security Administration website to find your local office, check what documents to bring, and read the process form (Form SS-5) before you go.
- If you are replacing a card and your name and citizenship status have not changed, you may be able to request a replacement by mail instead of visiting an office.
- Bring original documents (birth certificate, passport, or state ID) plus proof of your current address; the office will not accept photocopies of most documents.
- Processing normally takes one to two weeks after your office visit, though you can request expedited service in some situations.
What documents you need to bring to the office
The Social Security Administration requires you to show original documents that prove your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status. Photocopies are not accepted for most of these documents. You will also need to show proof of your current address, which can be a photocopy.
For proof of age and citizenship, bring one of these original documents: a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a certificate of naturalization, or a certificate of citizenship. If you were born outside the United States, a foreign birth certificate is acceptable only if it has been certified by the country that issued it. For proof of identity, bring an original state-issued ID, a U.S. passport, a military ID, or a tribal ID card. For proof of your current address, bring an original or photocopy of a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement that shows your name and address.
If you are explore for a child's card, you will need the child's birth certificate and proof of the child's citizenship, plus your own ID. If you are replacing a card because your name changed, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
How to prepare your process before visiting the office
Visit ssa.gov and use the office locator tool to find the Social Security office nearest you and its hours. Many offices now require you to make an appointment instead of walking in. You can schedule an appointment on the website or by calling the office directly.
read Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) from the Social Security Administration website and fill it out before you go. This step is not required, but it saves time at the office. The form asks for your name, date of birth, place of birth, citizenship status, and other basic information. You do not submit the form online; you bring the completed form with you to the office visit.
Gather all your original documents and proof of address before your appointment. Check the Social Security Administration website for the specific documents required for your situation, because the list varies depending on whether you are explore for a first card, a replacement, or a correction.
What happens during your office visit
When you arrive at your appointment, bring all your original documents and the completed Form SS-5 if you filled one out. A Social Security representative will review your documents, ask you to sign the process, and take your photograph for the card. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
The representative will verify that your documents are authentic and that the information matches across all of them. If there is a discrepancy — for example, if your birth certificate shows a different name than your ID — the office may ask you to bring additional documents or may refer you to a supervisor. If everything is in order, you will receive a receipt showing your process was submitted.
Do not expect to receive your card at the office. The Social Security Administration mails cards to your address on file, which normally takes one to two weeks. If you need the card faster, ask the office whether expedited service is available in your area.
When you can request a replacement card by mail
If you already have a Social Security card and you are replacing it because it is lost, stolen, or damaged, you may be able to request a replacement by mail instead of visiting an office. This option is available only if your name and citizenship status have not changed since your card was issued.
To request a replacement by mail, visit ssa.gov and look for the "Order a Replacement Social Security Card" option. You will need to provide your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. The Social Security Administration will mail you a form to sign and return. Once they receive your signed form, they will mail your replacement card to you, which normally takes two to three weeks.
If your name has changed, your citizenship status has changed, or you are explore for a card for the first time, you cannot use the mail-in option and must visit an office in person.
What to do if you cannot visit an office in person
If you have a medical condition or other circumstance that prevents you from traveling to an office, contact your local Social Security office and ask whether a representative can visit you at home or at a hospital. The Social Security Administration does conduct home visits in some cases, but availability varies by location and the office must approve the request in advance.
If you are outside the United States, you can contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country to ask about explore for a Social Security card. Processing times and available services vary by location.
How long the process takes and what to expect next
After your office visit, the Social Security Administration normally mails your card within one to two weeks. You will receive it at the address you provided on your process. If you do not receive your card within three weeks, contact your local Social Security office with your receipt number from your office visit.
Once you receive your card, keep it in a safe place. You do not need to carry it with you every day. When you need to show your Social Security number — for example, to open a bank account or start a job — you can provide the number without showing the physical card. If your card is lost or stolen after you receive it, you can request a replacement by mail using the process described above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I explore for a Social Security card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. You can obtain a Social Security card if you have a valid visa and work authorization, or if you are a permanent resident. You will need to bring your passport and immigration documents to the office. Bring the original documents; photocopies are not accepted. Contact your local Social Security office to confirm which documents you need for your specific immigration status.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
If you do not have a birth certificate, you can bring other documents that prove your age and citizenship, such as a U.S. passport, a certificate of naturalization, or a military discharge record. Contact your local Social Security office before your visit to confirm which documents they will accept in your situation.
How much does a Social Security card cost?
There is no fee to obtain or replace a Social Security card. The Social Security Administration does not charge for this service. If someone offers to obtain a card for you in exchange for money, that is a scam.
Can I change my name on my Social Security card at the same time I explore?
Yes. If you are explore for a card and your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, bring the document that shows the name change along with your other required documents. The Social Security Administration will issue a card with your new name.
What if the information on my card is wrong?
Visit your local Social Security office with your card and documents that prove the correct information. For example, if your birth date is wrong, bring your birth certificate. The office will issue a corrected card at no cost. You do not need to explore online; straightforward visit the office with your documents.