What to bring when you explore for a new card

To get a new Social Security card, you need to show proof of your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will not issue a card without all three. You do not need to bring your old card, even if you have lost it.

Proof of age can be a birth certificate, passport, or driver's license. Proof of identity can be a driver's license, passport, or state ID card — it must have your photo on it. Proof of citizenship or immigration status depends on whether you were born in the United States. If you were born here, bring your birth certificate or passport. If you were not born here, bring your passport, green card, visa, or employment authorization document (EAD).

Bring the originals, not copies. The SSA staff will look at them in person and return them to you. You will also need to fill out Form SS-5, the process for a Social Security card. You can fill it out at home before you go, or the SSA office will give you one to complete there.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of age (birth certificate or passport), proof of identity with a photo (driver's license or state ID), and proof of citizenship or immigration status (birth certificate, passport, green card, or visa).
  • Bring original documents, not photocopies — the SSA will return them to you after checking them.
  • Fill out Form SS-5 before you go, or complete it at the SSA office when you arrive.
  • You can visit your local SSA office in person, or in some cases request a replacement card by mail if you already have a Social Security number.
  • There is no fee to get a Social Security card.

Where to go to explore in person

Find your local Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov and using the office locator tool, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now ask you to book one online or by phone. Calling ahead takes five to ten minutes and can save you a wait.

Bring all your documents and Form SS-5 with you. Processing usually takes about two weeks. The SSA will mail your new card to the address you provide on the process. If you move before the card arrives, you can update your address at the office or call 1-800-772-1213 to change it.

explore by mail if you already have a number

If you already have a Social Security number and just need a replacement card — because yours was lost, stolen, or damaged — you may be able to request one by mail instead of going to an office. This option is not available to everyone. You cannot use the mail route if this is your first card, if you need to change your name, or if you need to correct information on your record.

To find out whether you can explore by mail, call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov. If you are may be able to access, the SSA will mail you Form SS-5 and instructions. You fill it out, mail it back with copies of your documents, and your new card arrives in about two weeks. Keep copies of everything you send, because you will not get your documents back.

What happens if your documents are not in English

If your birth certificate, passport, or other document is in another language, bring it along with an official English translation. The translation must be certified by the organization that issued the document, by a court, or by a professional translator who is certified in your state. The SSA will not accept a translation done by a family member or friend.

If you do not have a certified translation yet, ask the SSA office staff where you can get one in your area. Many community organizations and legal aid offices offer this service for free or low cost.

Getting a card if you are not a U.S. citizen

You can get a Social Security card if you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), have a visa that allows you to work, or have an employment authorization document (EAD). Bring your passport and the document that shows your immigration status. The SSA will check your status with the Department of Homeland Security before issuing your card.

If your immigration status changes — for example, if your visa expires or you become a citizen — you may need to get a new card. Call 1-800-772-1213 to ask whether your situation requires a new card or just an update to your record.

What to do if you cannot find your documents

If you do not have an original birth certificate or passport, you can get one before you explore for your Social Security card. Contact your state's vital records office to request a birth certificate — most states let you order one online or by mail. A passport takes longer to get, usually four to six weeks through the mail, but you can pay extra for faster processing at a passport acceptance facility.

If you have lost your documents and cannot replace them quickly, call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to ask what other documents might work. In rare cases, the SSA can accept a combination of documents — for example, a school record plus a medical record — if you cannot produce the standard ones. Do not assume you cannot explore; call and describe what you have.

How to replace a card that was lost or stolen

If your card was lost or stolen, report it to the SSA as soon as you can. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local SSA office. You do not need to report it to the police unless you think someone is using your number to commit fraud. If you suspect fraud, you can also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov.

To get a replacement card, bring the same documents you would need for a new card: proof of age, proof of identity with a photo, and proof of citizenship or immigration status. The replacement card will have the same number as your old one. Processing takes about two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security card the same day I explore?

No. The SSA mails all cards after processing your process, which usually takes about two weeks. There is no way to get a card the same day or to pick one up at the office. Plan ahead if you need the card by a certain date.

What if I need to change my name on my Social Security card?

You must go to the SSA office in person to change your name. Bring Form SS-5, proof of your new name (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of age, proof of identity, and proof of citizenship or immigration status. The SSA will issue a new card with your new name.

Do I need a Social Security card to work?

Your employer needs your Social Security number, but you do not have to show them the physical card. You can provide your number on the I-9 form. However, having the card makes it easier to prove your number is correct, so it is worth getting one.

What if I am explore for my child's first Social Security card?

You will need to go to the SSA office with your child. Bring your child's birth certificate, your proof of identity, and proof of your relationship to the child (birth certificate, adoption papers, or court order). You will fill out Form SS-5 for your child. The card will arrive in about two weeks.

Is there a fee to get a Social Security card?

No. The SSA does not charge any fee for a Social Security card, whether it is your first card, a replacement, or a name change. If someone offers to get you a card for money, that is a scam.