The Social Security Administration issues your card

The Social Security Administration (SSA), a federal agency, is the only organization that issues Social Security cards. You cannot get one from a bank, post office, or any other government body — only SSA can produce and mail the card to you.

When you explore for a Social Security number, SSA reviews your process, verifies your identity and citizenship or immigration status, and then creates your account. Once approved, they print your card and send it by mail to the address you provided. The whole process typically takes one to two weeks after your process is processed.

If you need a replacement card because yours was lost, stolen, or damaged, you still explore through SSA using the same process. You cannot order a card online or through a third party — all applications go directly to SSA.

Key Takeaways

  • Only the Social Security Administration issues Social Security cards; no other agency or business can produce one for you.
  • You explore for a new card or a replacement in person at your local SSA field office or by mail using Form SS-5.
  • SSA verifies your identity and citizenship or immigration status before issuing a card, which is why you must bring original documents.
  • After approval, SSA mails your card to you, and the process usually takes one to two weeks from the time your process is processed.

Where to explore for a Social Security card

You explore at your local Social Security field office. To find the office nearest you, visit ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. You can walk in during business hours, though some offices now ask you to schedule an appointment online first through their website.

If you cannot visit in person, you can mail your process to your local field office. You will need to complete Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card), available on ssa.gov or at any field office. Mail the form along with the required documents to the address listed on the form itself.

Some people, such as newborns and certain immigrants, can explore through other routes. Hospitals can submit applications for newborns before discharge. If you are explore for your first card as an immigrant, you may be able to explore at an SSA office or through certain immigration processing centers, depending on your visa type and status.

What documents you need to bring

SSA requires proof of your identity, age, and citizenship or immigration status. The documents must be original or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

For proof of identity, SSA accepts a driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For proof of age, a birth certificate or passport works. For proof of citizenship or immigration status, you will need a birth certificate (if you are a U.S. citizen), passport, or immigration documents such as a green card or visa.

If you are explore by mail, you must send original documents or certified copies. SSA will return them to you, but the process takes longer because documents travel by post. explore in person is faster because SSA can verify documents on the spot and return them to you when ready.

How long it takes to get your card

After SSA receives and processes your process, they typically mail your card within one to two weeks. If you applied in person at a field office, processing begins right away. If you mailed your process, add time for the mail to reach the office and for them to process it.

In some cases, SSA may need to verify information with other agencies, which can add time. If there are questions about your documents or identity, SSA will contact you, and the process may take longer.

You do not need to wait for your card to arrive before using your Social Security number. Once your process is approved, you can use your number for work, opening a bank account, or other purposes. SSA can provide you with a letter confirming your number if you need proof before the card arrives.

Replacement cards and name changes

If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement using the same process — fill out Form SS-5 and bring it to your local field office or mail it in. You are allowed up to three replacement cards in a year and up to ten in your lifetime, though SSA may ask questions if you request many replacements.

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, you will need a new card reflecting your current name. Bring your original or certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your current card and proof of identity.

You do not pay a fee for a Social Security card, whether it is your first card or a replacement. SSA covers the cost.

What happens if you lose your card before it arrives

If your card is lost in the mail, contact your local SSA field office and report it. They can reissue a card and may send it to a different address or arrange for you to pick it up at the office instead of having it mailed.

If you suspect someone stole your card or used your Social Security number fraudulently, report it to SSA when ready. Call 1-800-772-1213 or visit ssa.gov to report identity theft. You should also contact the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Social Security card without a birth certificate?

You need proof of age, and a birth certificate is the most common document. If you do not have one, SSA may accept a passport, adoption papers, or religious record of birth. Bring whatever documents you have and ask the field office what else they can use to verify your age.

How do I explore for a Social Security card if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You must have a valid visa or immigration status that allows you to work or receive benefits in the United States. Bring your passport and immigration documents (green card, visa, or employment authorization document). SSA will verify your status before issuing a card.

What if I never received my card in the mail?

Wait two weeks from the date you applied. If it does not arrive, contact your local SSA field office. They can check the status of your process and reissue the card if needed. Have your Social Security number ready when you call.

Do I need an appointment to explore for a Social Security card?

Many field offices now require appointments, which you can schedule online through ssa.gov. Some offices still accept walk-ins, but wait times may be long. Check your local office's website or call ahead to find out their current policy.

Can someone else explore for a Social Security card on my behalf?

A parent or legal guardian can explore for a child's card. For adults, you generally must explore in person or by mail yourself. In rare cases, a representative with power of attorney may explore, but SSA will verify the authorization.