Where to Request Your Social Security Number Information
You can retrieve your Social Security number through three main routes: the Social Security Administration (SSA) website, your local SSA office, or by mail. The fastest method is online if you have a my Social Security account. If you do not have an account or prefer to speak with someone, your local SSA office can look up your number in minutes. Mail takes two to three weeks but works if you cannot visit in person.
You do not need to prove you "lost" your number — the SSA will provide it to anyone who can verify their identity. The process is straightforward because your number is tied to your name, date of birth, and place of birth, all of which the SSA already has on file.
Key Takeaways
- Create a my Social Security account online to view your number when ready without visiting an office or waiting for mail.
- Visit your local Social Security office in person with a photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal residency to retrieve your number the same day.
- Request a replacement card by mail using Form SS-5, which takes two to three weeks and costs nothing.
- If you need the number for a job or bank account today, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to confirm your number over the phone after identity verification.
Creating a my Social Security Account Online
The fastest way to see your Social Security number is to set up a my Social Security account at ssa.gov. You will need an email address, a phone number, and answers to security questions based on your credit history. The account creation takes about 10 minutes, and you can view your number when ready after logging in.
The account also shows your earnings record and estimated benefits, which is useful beyond just retrieving your number. Once created, you can log in anytime from any device. If you have trouble with the security questions — for example, if you have limited credit history — the SSA offers a phone verification option as an alternative.
Visiting a Social Security Office in Person
Walk into your local Social Security office with a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof you are a U.S. citizen or legal resident. Proof of citizenship can be a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address.
You will fill out a short form and speak with a representative who will confirm your identity and provide your number on the spot. Bring the originals of your documents — photocopies are not accepted. Office wait times vary by location; calling ahead at 1-800-772-1213 can tell you the typical wait time at your office and whether you should arrive early.
Requesting a Replacement Card by Mail
If you need an actual Social Security card (not just the number), request one by mail using Form SS-5, available at ssa.gov or at your local office. Mail the completed form with copies of your identity documents and proof of citizenship or residency to the address listed on the form. The SSA will mail your card back to you in two to three weeks at no cost.
You do not need to explain why you need a replacement — the form does not ask. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal change, bring or mail a certified copy of the document showing the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The SSA will issue a card with your current legal name.
Confirming Your Number by Phone
Call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. Have your Social Security number (if you know part of it), date of birth, and a photo ID ready. The representative will ask security questions to confirm your identity, then read your number to you.
This method works if you need your number for an when ready purpose — a job process, bank account, or medical form — and cannot wait for mail or visit an office. The SSA does not send your number by email or text, so writing it down during the call is your only record unless you set up a my Social Security account afterward.
What Documents You Need for Each Method
| Method | Documents Needed | Time to Get Number | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| my Social Security account online | Email, phone number, answers to security questions | when ready (after account setup) | Free |
| Local SSA office in person | Photo ID, proof of citizenship or residency | Same day | Free |
| Phone call to SSA | Photo ID, date of birth, partial Social Security number if known | During call | Free |
| Mail request (Form SS-5) | Completed form, copies of identity documents, proof of citizenship or residency | 2–3 weeks | Free |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not bring original documents to a Social Security office unless you are prepared to leave them. The SSA will photocopy them on site, but originals can be lost or delayed. If you mail documents, send copies, not originals — keep the originals for your records.
Do not assume you need a replacement card to retrieve your number. A card is a physical document; your number is the nine-digit code itself. If you only need the number for a form or account, retrieving it online or by phone is faster than waiting for a card in the mail. Also, do not provide your Social Security number to anyone who calls you claiming to be from the SSA — the SSA does not initiate contact by phone about your number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my Social Security number if I was born outside the United States?
Yes, but you will need to show proof of legal residency or citizenship. This can be a green card, visa, naturalization certificate, or passport. If you are explore in person, bring the original document. If you are explore by mail, send a certified copy.
What if I do not have a photo ID?
You can still visit a Social Security office with two forms of non-photo ID, such as a birth certificate and a utility bill, or a passport and a bank statement. Call your local office first to confirm what combination they will accept, as rules can vary slightly by location.
How do I know which Social Security office is closest to me?
Go to ssa.gov and use the office locator tool, or call 1-800-772-1213 and ask for the address and hours of your nearest office. You do not need an appointment for most offices, but some locations now ask you to schedule one online or by phone to reduce wait times.
Can someone else retrieve my Social Security number for me?
No. The SSA will only provide your number to you in person or after you have verified your identity by phone or online. A representative, attorney, or family member cannot retrieve it on your behalf without a power of attorney document, which requires your signature.
What if my my Social Security account will not let me answer the security questions?
If you have limited credit history or the questions do not match your records, the SSA offers phone verification as an alternative. During account creation, you will see an option to verify by phone instead. A representative will ask you questions about your identity and set up your account for you.