You can order a replacement Social Security card online through the Social Security Administration's website if you meet certain requirements

The Social Security Administration (SSA) now lets you request a replacement card online at ssa.gov/myaccount without going to a local office. You will need a My Social Security account, a valid state-issued ID, and a U.S. mailing address. The process takes about 5 to 10 minutes, and the SSA will mail your new card to you — usually within 7 to 10 business days, though this can vary by location.

Not everyone can use the online route. If you are under 18, do not have a state ID, were not born in the United States, or need to change the name on your card, you will have to visit a Social Security office or use the mail-in form instead. This guide covers the online path and what to do if you cannot use it.

Key Takeaways

  • You must have a My Social Security account and a valid state ID to order online; creating the account takes 10 to 15 minutes if you do not have one yet.
  • The online form asks for your Social Security number, date of birth, and state ID information — have these ready before you start.
  • Your replacement card will be mailed to the address on file with the SSA, so update it first if you have moved recently.
  • If you cannot use the online option, you can mail Form SS-5 to your local Social Security office or visit in person with proof of identity and citizenship.

What You Need Before You Start

Gather these items before you log in. You will need your Social Security number, your date of birth, and a valid state-issued ID — a driver's license, state ID card, or passport. The SSA will verify your identity using information from your ID, so make sure it is current and matches the name on your Social Security record.

You will also need access to the email address or phone number linked to your My Social Security account. If you do not have an account yet, you can create one during the same visit to ssa.gov. The account creation process asks you to verify your identity using information from your credit report, so it typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.

Make sure your mailing address is up to date in your Social Security record before you submit your request. The SSA will send your card to the address they have on file. If you have moved and have not updated it, your card may go to your old address. You can update your address through My Social Security or by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

Step-by-Step: Ordering Online

Step 1: Log in or create your account. Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and click "Sign In." If you already have a My Social Security account, enter your username and password. If not, click "Create an account" and follow the prompts to verify your identity. You will answer questions based on your credit history or provide information from your state ID.

Step 2: Navigate to the replacement card request. Once logged in, look for "Replacement Social Security Card" or "Order a Replacement Card" in the menu. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on when you last updated your account.

Step 3: Confirm your information. The form will show your name, date of birth, and Social Security number as they appear in the SSA's records. Review this carefully. If anything is wrong — especially your name — stop and contact the SSA before proceeding. Ordering a card with incorrect information will delay the process.

Step 4: Choose your delivery method. Select standard mail delivery. The SSA does not currently offer expedited shipping for online orders, so your card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days under normal circumstances.

Step 5: Review and submit. Check the mailing address one more time. Click submit. You will receive a confirmation number on screen — write it down or take a screenshot. The SSA will also send a confirmation email to the address on file.

When You Cannot Order Online

If you are under 18, the online option is not available — a parent or guardian must request the card in person at a Social Security office. If you do not have a valid state ID, were born outside the United States, or need to change your name on the card, you will also need to visit an office or mail in a form.

To request a card by mail, read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov, fill it out, and mail it with copies of your proof of identity and proof of citizenship to your local Social Security office. The address is on the form. Processing by mail takes longer — usually 2 to 3 weeks — so plan ahead if you need the card for a specific important date.

To visit an office in person, find your local Social Security office at ssa.gov/locator. Bring your original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a photo ID, and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease works). Walk-in hours vary by location, and some offices now require you to make an appointment online first.

What Happens After You Submit

The SSA will process your request and mail your card to the address on file. You should receive it within 7 to 10 business days, though this varies by region and mail volume. You will not receive a tracking number, so you cannot check the status of your card in transit.

If more than 10 business days have passed and you have not received your card, contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. Have your confirmation number ready. The SSA can check whether the card was mailed and, if necessary, issue a replacement.

Once your card arrives, check that your name, date of birth, and Social Security number are correct. If there is an error, contact the SSA right away. Do not use a card with incorrect information.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not submit a request if your address is wrong. Many people forget to update their address before ordering and then have to request the card again. Log into My Social Security and verify your address before you start the replacement process.

Do not assume your name on the card matches your current legal name. If you have married, divorced, or changed your name for any reason and have not updated your Social Security record, the card will arrive with your old name. You will need to visit an office in person with a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order) to fix this.

Do not wait until you need the card for a job or bank account to order it. The 7 to 10 business day window is an estimate, and delays do happen. If you know you will need it by a specific date, order it at least two weeks in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a replacement card cost?

There is no charge for a replacement Social Security card ordered online or by mail. The SSA does not charge for cards, whether you are replacing a lost card, requesting a duplicate, or updating information.

Can I track my card after I order it?

No. The SSA does not provide tracking numbers for cards sent by mail. If you have not received your card within 10 business days, call 1-800-772-1213 with your confirmation number and they can tell you whether it was mailed.

What if my state ID is expired?

An expired state ID will not work for online ordering. The SSA requires a valid, current ID to verify your identity. You will need to visit a Social Security office in person or mail in Form SS-5 instead.

Can I order a card if I have a name mismatch between my ID and my Social Security record?

If your name on your state ID does not match the name in the Social Security system, the online verification will likely fail. Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to update your name first, then try ordering online. If the mismatch is recent, you may need to visit an office with proof of your legal name change.

What if I never received my card after two weeks?

Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 with your confirmation number. They will check whether the card was mailed and can reissue it if it was lost in transit. Be prepared to wait on hold, as call volumes are often high.