How to replace your Social Security card

You can replace your Social Security card by visiting your local Social Security office in person with proof of identity and citizenship. The process takes about 10 to 14 business days once you submit your documents. You cannot replace your card by mail or phone — you must go to the office yourself.

Social Security stopped issuing cards by mail in 2018. If you have lost your card, had it stolen, or need a corrected version, an in-person visit is the only way forward. The good news is that the process is straightforward once you know what documents to bring.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Social Security office in person with a government-issued photo ID and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status.
  • Replacement cards usually arrive within 10 to 14 business days after you submit your documents at the office.
  • You do not need an appointment — most offices accept walk-ins, though you may wait longer during busy times.
  • If your name has changed since your last card was issued, bring a document that shows the legal change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Documents you need to bring

Bring one government-issued photo ID and one document proving your U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status. A driver's license or passport works for the photo ID. For citizenship proof, bring your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers.

If you are not a U.S. citizen but have a work visa or green card, bring your immigration documents instead. The Social Security office staff can tell you which documents they accept — you can call ahead to confirm before you go.

If your name has changed since your original card was issued, bring the document that shows the legal change. This might be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Social Security will not issue a card under a new name without proof of the change.

Finding your local Social Security office

Go to ssa.gov/locator and enter your zip code to find the office nearest you. The website shows the office address, phone number, and hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours one evening per week.

You can call the office before you go to ask about wait times or confirm which documents they need. The phone number is on the locator page. If you call the national Social Security number (1-800-772-1213), they can also tell you which office is closest and what to expect.

Some offices are busier than others. If you go early in the morning or mid-week, you may wait less time. Bring all your documents in one visit so you do not have to return.

What happens when you arrive at the office

Tell the staff member at the front desk that you need a replacement card. They will give you a form to fill out — it is called the process for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5). The form asks for your name, date of birth, where you were born, and your mother's maiden name. You can fill it out at home before you go or at the office.

Hand your completed form and documents to the staff member. They will check your documents, make copies, and take your information into the system. You do not need to pay a fee. The staff will give you a receipt with a number to track your card.

Ask the staff member how long the card usually takes to arrive at your address. Most people receive their card within 10 to 14 business days, but this can vary depending on where you live and how busy the office is.

If your card was stolen or you suspect fraud

If someone stole your card or you think someone is using your number without permission, tell the Social Security office staff when you explore for the replacement. They can make a note in your file. You should also check your credit report and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

You can get a free credit report from annualcreditreport.com, which is the official site run by the three major credit bureaus. Look for accounts or charges you do not recognize. If you find fraud, contact the credit bureau and the company where the fraud occurred.

Social Security itself does not monitor fraud — that is handled by credit bureaus and banks. But reporting it to Social Security creates a record in case someone tries to use your number for work or benefits.

If you need your card before 10 to 14 days

There is no way to speed up the replacement process. Social Security does not offer expedited cards or temporary cards. If you need proof of your Social Security number before your card arrives, you can print a Social Security Number Verification Letter from your online my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount.

To create an account, you will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a phone number or email address. Once you are logged in, you can print a letter that shows your name and number. Many employers and banks accept this letter as proof while you wait for your physical card.

If you do not have an online account and cannot create one, you can call 1-800-772-1213 and ask Social Security to mail you a verification letter instead. This takes about 5 to 7 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else pick up my card for me?

No. You must pick up your card yourself at the Social Security office, or it will be mailed to the address on file. Social Security does not release cards to family members or representatives. If you cannot go to the office, wait for the card to arrive by mail at your home address.

What if I lost my birth certificate too?

You will need to get a replacement birth certificate from the vital records office in the state or county where you were born. That office is separate from Social Security. Once you have your birth certificate, you can go to Social Security with it and your photo ID to get your card replaced.

Do I need an appointment?

Most Social Security offices do not require appointments and accept walk-ins. However, some offices now offer appointments through their website or by phone. Check your local office's website or call ahead to see if appointments are available in your area. Walk-ins may have longer wait times during busy hours.

What if my name is different on my documents?

If your name does not match across your ID, birth certificate, and other documents, bring all the documents that show the name changes in order. For example, if you were born under one name, married and changed it, then divorced and changed it again, bring the birth certificate, marriage certificate, and divorce decree. Social Security will use these to verify your current legal name.

Can I replace my card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a valid work visa, green card, or other lawful immigration status. Bring your immigration documents along with your photo ID. If your visa or status has expired, you may not be able to replace your card until you renew your immigration documents.