How to get a copy of your Social Security number
You can get a replacement Social Security card by visiting your local Social Security office in person, by mail, or through an online request if you meet certain requirements. The fastest way is usually in person — you can often walk in without an appointment and receive your card within one to two weeks. If you cannot visit an office, you can mail in your request, which typically takes three to five weeks. Online requests are available to people age 18 and older who have a state-issued ID and a mailing address on file with Social Security.
You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current address. A driver's license or state ID covers both identity and address. For citizenship, bring your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. If you do not have these documents, Social Security can tell you what alternatives they accept.
Key Takeaways
- In-person visits to a Social Security office are usually the fastest way to get a replacement card, taking one to two weeks.
- You need to bring proof of identity (driver's license or state ID), proof of citizenship (birth certificate or passport), and proof of your current address.
- Online requests are available to people 18 and older with a state ID and a mailing address on file, and typically take three to five weeks.
- Mail-in requests take longer than in-person visits but do not require you to leave home.
- You can find your local Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov or calling 1-800-772-1213.
Getting a card in person at a Social Security office
Walk into your local Social Security office with your documents and ask for a replacement card. You do not need to call ahead or schedule an appointment at most offices, though some locations now use an online waiting list you can join from home. Check ssa.gov and enter your zip code to find the office nearest you and see whether that location uses a waiting list.
Bring your driver's license or state ID, your birth certificate or passport, and a recent utility bill or lease showing your current address. If your name has changed since your last card, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Hand these to the clerk and fill out Form SS-5, which Social Security provides at the office. You will leave with a receipt and receive your card by mail within one to two weeks.
If you do not have a driver's license or state ID, bring two other documents that prove who you are — a passport, employee ID, school ID, or bank statement with your name on it. Social Security has a full list of acceptable documents on their website.
Requesting a card by mail
read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 and ask them to mail it to you. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and gather your documents: a copy of your birth certificate or passport, a copy of your driver's license or state ID, and a copy of a document showing your current address.
Mail the completed form and copies of your documents to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the correct mailing address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Do not mail original documents — Social Security will not return them. Make copies instead, or bring originals to an office in person if you prefer.
Mail requests typically take three to five weeks from the day Social Security receives your envelope. If you need the card sooner, visiting an office in person is faster. If you are mailing from outside the United States, allow extra time for mail delivery.
Requesting a card online
If you are 18 or older, have a state-issued driver's license or ID, and have a mailing address on file with Social Security, you can request a replacement card online at ssa.gov. You will need to create a my Social Security account if you do not already have one. The online request takes about 10 minutes.
Social Security will verify your identity by asking questions about your personal history — your previous addresses, employers, or financial accounts. Once approved, your card will be mailed to the address on file. Online requests typically take three to five weeks. You will receive an email confirmation when your card ships.
If you do not meet the age or ID requirements, or if you have recently moved and your address is not yet on file with Social Security, you will need to request a card by mail or in person instead.
What to do if you have lost your Social Security card
Report the loss to Social Security as soon as you notice it is missing. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local office to report it. Social Security does not charge a fee for a replacement card, even if you have lost multiple cards. You can request a new one using any of the three methods above.
If you are concerned that someone may have stolen your card and used your number, contact the Social Security fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271. They can tell you whether there is fraudulent activity on your account. You can also check your Social Security earnings record online through your my Social Security account to see whether wages have been reported under your number that you did not earn.
What to do if your name has changed
You will need a new Social Security card if your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order. Bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your proof of identity and current address. The process is the same as requesting a replacement card: you can go in person, mail your request, or request online if you meet the age and ID requirements.
Social Security will update your name in their records and issue a new card with the same number. You do not get a new number when your name changes. Once you receive your new card, update your name with your employer, bank, insurance company, and any other organization that has your Social Security information on file.
Documents you need to bring or send
| What you need | Acceptable documents |
|---|---|
| Proof of identity | Driver's license, state ID, passport, employee ID, school ID, or bank statement with your name |
| Proof of citizenship | Birth certificate, U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or consular report of birth abroad |
| Proof of current address | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 12 months |
| Proof of name change (if applicable) | Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a replacement Social Security card cost?
There is no fee. Social Security does not charge for a replacement card, no matter how many times you have lost or damaged one. Anyone offering to charge you for a Social Security card is running a scam.
Can I get a Social Security card if I was not born in the United States?
Yes. You need to bring proof of citizenship or lawful permanent resident status. A naturalization certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or valid green card will work. If you are not yet a permanent resident, bring your visa and employment authorization document.
How long does it take to get a replacement card?
In-person requests usually take one to two weeks. Mail and online requests typically take three to five weeks. Times vary by location and how busy the office is. You will receive a receipt when you explore that shows the expected delivery date.
What if I need my Social Security number before my card arrives?
You do not need the physical card to use your number. When you explore in person, the office gives you a receipt showing your number. You can use that receipt as proof of your number for employment, banking, or other purposes while you wait for the card to arrive by mail.
Can someone else pick up my Social Security card for me?
No. Social Security requires the person named on the card to pick it up in person at the office. If you cannot visit in person, request your card by mail or online instead.