You can get a replacement card by mail, in person, or online depending on your state
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will send you a replacement card at no cost. You do not need to visit an office if you have a state-issued ID and were born in the United States — you can request one online through ssa.gov/myaccount or by mail. If you were born outside the U.S., or if you do not have a state ID, you will need to go to your local Social Security office in person and bring original documents.
The fastest route for most people is the online request, which takes about 10 minutes. By mail takes one to two weeks. In-person requests are processed the same day, but you have to travel and wait. Which option works best depends on whether you have the right ID and how quickly you need the card.
Key Takeaways
- You can order a replacement card online at ssa.gov/myaccount if you have a state-issued ID and were born in the United States.
- Mailing a request form takes one to two weeks and requires you to send original documents or certified copies.
- Visiting a Social Security office in person gets you a card the same day but requires proof of identity, citizenship, and age.
- You will need your Social Security number, which you can find on tax forms, bank statements, or previous correspondence from SSA.
- There is no fee for a replacement card, and you can request up to three per year.
Ordering online through your Social Security account
Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and sign in or create an account. You will need an email address and a way to verify your identity — usually a cell phone number or a bank account. Once you are logged in, look for "Replacement Social Security Card" under the "My Requests" section.
You will be asked to confirm your current address and choose where you want the card mailed. The card will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. This option is only available if you have a state-issued driver's license or ID card and were born in the United States. If either of those does not explore to you, use the mail or in-person method instead.
Requesting by mail
read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213 to have one mailed to you. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, place of birth, and the reason you need a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged).
You must include proof of identity, proof of citizenship, and proof of age. Acceptable documents include a driver's license, passport, birth certificate, or state ID. You can send originals or certified copies — do not send photocopies. Mail the completed form and documents to your local Social Security office. You can find the address at ssa.gov/locator. The card will arrive in one to two weeks after SSA receives your request.
Visiting a Social Security office in person
Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator by entering your zip code. You can walk in during business hours or call ahead to schedule an appointment, which usually reduces wait time. Bring your original documents: a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), and proof of age (birth certificate or passport).
The office will take your documents, verify your information, and give you a receipt. Your replacement card will be mailed to you within one to two weeks. Some offices offer a same-day card in limited cases — ask when you call or arrive.
What documents you need for each method
| Method | Identity Proof | Citizenship Proof | Age Proof | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online | State ID or driver's license (verified digitally) | Not required if born in U.S. | Not required | 7–10 business days |
| Driver's license, passport, or state ID (original or certified copy) | Birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers (original or certified copy) | Birth certificate or passport (original or certified copy) | 1–2 weeks | |
| In person | Driver's license, passport, or state ID (original) | Birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers (original) | Birth certificate or passport (original) | 1–2 weeks by mail; same-day in some cases |
If your card was lost or stolen
Report a lost or stolen card to SSA as soon as you know it is missing. Call 1-800-772-1213 or report it in person at your local office. You do not have to report it to the police unless you suspect identity theft, but if someone uses your number fraudulently, you will want a police report on file.
When you request your replacement, tell SSA whether the card was lost or stolen. This helps them flag your account. If you suspect fraud, contact the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov and file a report. Keep a copy for your records and share it with SSA when you request your replacement card.
Limits on how many cards you can get
You can request up to three replacement cards in a calendar year and up to ten in your lifetime. These limits exist to prevent fraud. If you have reached your limit, SSA may ask you to explain why you need another card or to wait until the next calendar year.
If you have a legitimate reason to exceed the limit — such as repeated theft or a job that requires frequent card replacement — contact your local Social Security office to discuss your situation. They can sometimes make exceptions or help you address the underlying problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement card if I was born outside the United States?
You cannot order one online. You must visit your local Social Security office in person and bring your original passport, naturalization papers, or green card along with proof of age and identity. Call ahead to schedule an appointment.
What if I do not have my Social Security number?
You can find it on tax forms, W-2s, bank statements, or old letters from SSA. If you cannot locate it, bring whatever identity documents you have to your local Social Security office and staff can help you look it up.
How long does it take to receive a card by mail?
Most cards arrive within one to two weeks of SSA receiving your request. Mail delivery times vary by location. If you need the card urgently, visiting an office in person is faster, though you will still wait one to two weeks for the physical card to arrive by mail.
Do I have to pay for a replacement card?
No. The Social Security Administration issues replacement cards at no cost. If someone charges you a fee to get a replacement card, they are running a scam.
Can someone else pick up my replacement card for me?
If you ordered online or by mail, the card is mailed to your address. If you requested it in person at an office, you must pick it up yourself with a photo ID. SSA does not release cards to other people.