How to Get a Replacement Social Security Card

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 conditions. The fastest method is usually in-person at an office, which takes about 10 business days. Mail requests take longer — typically two to four weeks — and online requests are only available to people aged 18 and older with a driver's license or state ID from a participating state.

You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current legal name. The Social Security Administration (SSA) accepts a limited list of documents for each category, so knowing what counts before you go saves a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person visits to a Social Security office usually take 10 business days; mail requests take two to four weeks.
  • You must bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted.
  • If your name has changed, you will need a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
  • You can request a card online if you are 18 or older and have a driver's license or state ID from a state that participates in the online program.
  • There is no fee to replace a Social Security card, but you are limited to three replacement cards per year and ten in your lifetime.

Documents You Need to Bring

The SSA requires three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of your current legal name. You must bring originals or certified copies — the SSA will not accept photocopies, faxes, or notarized copies.

For proof of identity, the SSA accepts a current driver's license, passport, state ID card, or military ID. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a school ID, employee ID, or medical record with your name and photo. A few other documents work too — ask your local office if you are unsure.

For proof of citizenship, bring your birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, or a Certificate of Citizenship. The birth certificate must be an official copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp, not a photocopy. If you were born outside the United States, a U.S. passport or Certificate of Citizenship is usually the easiest option.

For proof of your current legal name, bring your birth certificate if your name has not changed since birth. If your name has changed — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. These must also be originals or certified copies.

explore In Person at a Social Security Office

Visit your local Social Security office with your documents. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but you can schedule one online or by phone to avoid waiting. Go to ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you and see its hours.

Bring all three types of documents listed above in their original form or as certified copies. The staff will review them, take your information, and tell you when your card will arrive — usually within 10 business days. If documents are missing or incomplete, they will tell you what else you need before they can process your request.

If you cannot visit in person, you can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to ask about mail or online options, or to learn about your state participates in the online program.

Requesting a Card by Mail

You can mail your documents to your local Social Security office instead of visiting in person. First, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to request Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card). You can print it, fill it out by hand, and mail it with copies of your documents.

Make photocopies of your identity document, citizenship document, and name-change document (if applicable). Do not send originals by mail — send copies only. Include a cover letter with your name, Social Security number, phone number, and the reason you need a replacement card.

Mail everything to your local Social Security office. You can find the mailing address on ssa.gov/locator. Processing takes two to four weeks from the time the office receives your envelope. If documents are unclear or missing, the office will contact you by phone or mail.

explore Online (If Available in Your State)

If you are 18 or older and have a driver's license or state ID from a participating state, you may be able to request a replacement card online at ssa.gov/myaccount. Not all states participate yet, so check the website to see if yours does.

You will need to create or sign into your my Social Security account. You will answer questions about your identity and upload a photo of your ID. The SSA will verify your information and send your card by mail within 10 business days. This method is faster than mailing documents and does not require a trip to an office.

Limits on Replacement Cards and Fees

There is no cost to replace a Social Security card. However, the SSA limits how many you can request: you can get three replacement cards in one year and ten in your lifetime. These limits exist to prevent fraud.

If you have already reached your limit, you will need to contact the SSA directly to explain why you need another card. The office may make an exception if you have a documented reason — for example, if your card was stolen or destroyed in a disaster.

What to Do If Your Card Is Lost or Stolen

If your card is lost, follow the same steps as a regular replacement request. If your card was stolen, you may want to monitor your credit and Social Security number for fraud. You can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by calling one of them — they will notify the others automatically.

You can also create a my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount to check your earnings record and watch for any unauthorized use of your number. If you see suspicious activity, contact the Social Security Administration's fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

In-person requests usually take 10 business days. Mail requests take two to four weeks. Online requests (where available) also take about 10 business days. The timeline starts after the office receives your complete process with all required documents.

Can I use a temporary card while I wait for my replacement?

The SSA does not issue temporary cards. However, you can bring a receipt from your office visit as proof that you have requested a card. Some employers and banks will accept this receipt temporarily while you wait for the physical card to arrive.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a passport, naturalization papers, or Certificate of Citizenship as proof of citizenship instead. If you do not have any of these, contact your local Social Security office — they can tell you what other documents might work in your situation.

Do I need an appointment to visit a Social Security office?

Appointments are not required, but you can schedule one online or by phone to reduce wait time. Visit ssa.gov/locator to find your office and see if it offers online scheduling. Walk-ins are usually accepted during regular business hours.

What if my name has changed since I got my last card?

Bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The SSA will update your name in their system and issue a new card with your current legal name.