You cannot get a Social Security card entirely online, but you can start the process from home

The Social Security Administration does not offer a fully online process for Social Security cards. However, you can begin your request online through their website, and in some states you can complete the entire process without visiting an office. The fastest route depends on where you live and whether you need a replacement card or your first card.

If you live in a state that offers online service, you can submit your information and documents through the SSA's online portal, then either have your card mailed to you or pick it up at a local office. If your state does not yet offer this service, you will need to visit a Social Security office in person with your documents.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start a replacement card request online in about 20 states, but availability varies by state and by what documents you have.
  • The online process requires you to upload a photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal residency, then verify your identity through a video call with an SSA representative.
  • If your state does not offer online service, you must visit a Social Security office with original documents or certified copies.
  • Replacement cards typically arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your request is processed.
  • You cannot order a first Social Security card online; you must explore in person at a Social Security office.

Which states offer online Social Security card requests

As of 2024, the SSA's online service is available in about 20 states, though the list continues to grow. States currently offering online requests include Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. The SSA website has a state-by-state list showing which states are active.

Even in states with online service, not all requests can be completed online. You must have a valid state-issued ID or passport, and you must be able to verify your identity through a video call. If you cannot meet these requirements, you will need to visit an office in person.

What documents you need to upload online

To start an online request, you will need to upload clear photos of two documents. The first is a photo ID — a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. The second is proof of citizenship or legal residency. Acceptable documents for citizenship include a birth certificate, passport, or Certificate of Naturalization. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need to show your green card, visa, or other immigration document.

All documents must be current and clearly readable. If your birth certificate is old or faded, a certified copy from your state's vital records office works. The SSA will tell you during the upload process whether your documents meet their standards. If they do not, you can either resubmit clearer images or visit an office in person.

The identity verification step

After you upload your documents, the SSA will schedule a video call with you to verify your identity. During this call, an SSA representative will ask you questions about your personal history and may ask you to show your ID again on camera. The call usually takes 5 to 10 minutes. You will need a device with a camera and microphone — a smartphone, tablet, or computer — and a quiet space where you can speak privately.

If you do not pass identity verification, the SSA will tell you why and give you the option to try again or visit an office in person. Most people pass on the first attempt. If you are concerned about the video call, you can skip the online process and visit an office instead.

How long it takes and where your card goes

Once your identity is verified, the SSA will process your request. Replacement cards typically arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Some states also offer in-office pickup, which is faster — you can pick up your card the same day or the next business day if you choose that option when you submit your request.

The card will be mailed to the address you provide in your request. If you are moving soon, update your address with the SSA before you submit your request, or choose in-office pickup instead. If your card does not arrive within 10 business days, contact your local Social Security office to check the status.

What to do if your state does not offer online service

If you live in a state without online service, or if you cannot complete the online process, you will need to visit a Social Security office in person. Bring your original documents or certified copies — your birth certificate, passport, or Certificate of Naturalization for citizenship, plus a photo ID. The office will make copies for you.

You can find your local office on the SSA website by entering your zip code. Call ahead to ask about wait times, or use the office's online appointment system if available. Most offices can issue a replacement card on the same day you visit, though you will still receive it by mail within 7 to 10 days.

First Social Security cards must be ordered in person

If you have never had a Social Security card, you cannot order one online. You must visit a Social Security office in person with your birth certificate, proof of citizenship or legal residency, and a photo ID. The office will submit your process and you will receive your card by mail within 1 to 2 weeks.

Newborns can receive a Social Security number and card through the hospital at birth if you request it. If you did not receive one as a child, you can explore at any age by visiting a Social Security office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security card mailed to an address other than my home?

Yes. During the online request or at the office, you can provide any mailing address — a relative's home, a workplace, a P.O. box, or a temporary address. Make sure the address is correct before you submit, because the SSA will mail your card there.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can order a certified copy from your state's vital records office, usually for $10 to $30. The office will mail it to you within 1 to 3 weeks. If you need your Social Security card urgently, visit a Social Security office in person and ask if they can accept other documents — such as a passport, adoption papers, or hospital birth record — while you wait for the certified copy.

Do I need to bring my old card if I am replacing it?

No. You do not need your old card to request a replacement. If you have it, you can bring it, but it is not required. The SSA will issue a new card with the same number.

How many replacement cards can I order?

The SSA limits you to three replacement cards in a year and ten in your lifetime. If you have reached this limit, you will need to contact the SSA directly to discuss your situation.

What if I moved and my address changed after I submitted my request?

Contact your local Social Security office as soon as possible with your new address. If your card has not been mailed yet, they may be able to update it. If it has already been mailed to your old address, you can file a change of address with the post office to have it forwarded, or visit your local office to request a replacement.