How to Replace a Social Security Card

Step-by-Step Process

1. 1

   Determine if you actually need a replacement card

   In most situations, knowing your Social Security number is sufficient. Employers, banks, and government agencies typically do not require you to show the physical card. A W-2 form, SSA-1099, tax return, or pay stub showing your full SSN can often serve the same purpose. If you do need the physical card, continue with the steps below.

2. 2

   Try the online method first (fastest)

   Visit ssa.gov and log into or create a my Social Security account. Select "Replace Your Social Security Card" and follow the guided steps. To use the online method, you must: be a U.S. citizen age 18 or older, have a U.S. mailing address, have a driver's license or state-issued ID from a participating state, and not need a name change or any corrections to your record. If you qualify, this is by far the fastest method -- no documents to mail, no office visit needed. Your new card arrives in 10 to 14 business days.

3. 3

   If you cannot apply online, go in person or by mail

   In person: Call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office or Card Center. Bring your completed Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) and your original identity documents. You can download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov. By mail: Complete Form SS-5, gather your original documents, and mail everything to your local SSA office. Your original documents will be returned to you. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks by mail.

4. 4

   Gather the required documents

   For a simple replacement (no name change, same information): You only need to prove your identity. Bring one primary document such as a U.S. driver's license, state ID, or U.S. passport. If you do not have a primary document, SSA may accept secondary documents such as an employee ID, school ID, health insurance card (not Medicare), or U.S. military ID. All documents must be originals or certified copies from the issuing agency -- photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted.

5. 5

   Submit your application and wait for your card

   After submitting your application (online, in person, or by mail), your new Social Security card will be mailed to your address. It typically arrives in 10 to 14 business days. There is no way to get a same-day replacement card. If you need proof of your Social Security number immediately, you can request a Social Security Number Verification Letter at your SSA office, which many employers and agencies will accept.

What You Need

It Is FREE -- Do Not Pay Anyone

This is the single most important thing to know: replacing your Social Security card costs nothing. The Social Security Administration provides this service for free. There are scam websites and unnecessary "document assistance" services that charge $20 to $100 or more to "help" you get a replacement card. They simply fill out the same free form you can fill out yourself. Never pay anyone to replace your Social Security card. Go directly to ssa.gov or visit your local SSA office.

Online Replacement (Fastest Method)

If you meet the eligibility requirements, applying online is the fastest and easiest way to replace your card. Visit ssa.gov, create or log into your my Social Security account, and select "Replace Your Social Security Card." The system verifies your identity electronically, so you do not need to mail any documents or visit an office. Your new card arrives in 10 to 14 business days. To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen, age 18 or older, with a U.S. mailing address and a valid driver's license or state ID from a participating state. You cannot use the online method if you need a name change or corrections. As of 2025, most states participate in the online replacement program.

In-Person Replacement

If you cannot apply online, you can visit a Social Security office or Card Center in person. You will need to schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). Bring your completed Form SS-5 (available at ssa.gov or at the office) and your original identity document(s). The staff will process your application and return your original documents. Your new card will be mailed to you within 10 to 14 business days. Note: you cannot get a same-day card.

Replacement by Mail

You can also apply by mail, though this is the slowest method and requires mailing original documents. Complete Form SS-5, include your original identity document(s), and mail everything to your local SSA office. The SSA will process your application and return your original documents by mail. Total processing time is typically 2 to 4 weeks. Because you must mail original documents, use a secure mailing method and consider sending from a post office rather than a mailbox. Some people are understandably nervous about mailing original documents -- if that describes you, the in-person method is a better option.

Replacement Limits: 3 Per Year, 10 Per Lifetime

Federal law limits you to 3 replacement Social Security cards per calendar year and 10 replacement cards in your lifetime. These limits were established by the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 and took effect in December 2005. However, several important exceptions apply: cards issued for a legal name change (marriage, divorce, court order) do not count toward the limit, cards issued for changes in immigration status do not count, and the SSA can grant exceptions for significant hardship situations. If you think you may be at or near the limit, contact your local SSA office to discuss your options. Even if you cannot get a new card, your Social Security number remains valid and you can still get a verification letter.

Name Changes on Your Social Security Card

If your legal name has changed (due to marriage, divorce, or a court-ordered name change), you need to update your Social Security record before the SSA will issue a new card. You will need to provide proof of your legal name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with proof of identity. Name changes cannot be done online -- you must visit an SSA office in person or apply by mail. The name change itself is free, and the new card reflecting your updated name does not count toward your replacement limits.

What If You Do Not Have a Photo ID

The SSA prefers a primary form of ID like a driver's license, state ID, or U.S. passport. If you do not have any of these, they may accept secondary documents. Acceptable secondary documents include an employee ID, school ID, health insurance card (but not a Medicare card), or U.S. military ID. The key is that the document must show your name and identifying information (such as date of birth or physical description) and preferably include a recent photograph. If you have no ID at all, this creates a Catch-22 situation (you need ID to get a Social Security card, but you may need a Social Security card to get ID). In this case, see our guide on how to get ID with no documents, or contact a Legal Aid office or reentry program for help.

Social Security Number Verification Letter

If you need proof of your Social Security number immediately and cannot wait 10 to 14 days for a replacement card, you can request a Social Security Number Verification Letter at your local SSA office. This letter confirms your name and Social Security number and is accepted by many employers and government agencies as temporary proof while you wait for your card to arrive. You can also print a benefit verification letter from your my Social Security account online.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to replace a Social Security card?

It is completely FREE. The Social Security Administration never charges for a replacement card. Do not pay any website or service for this -- go to ssa.gov directly.

How long does it take to get a replacement card?

After your application is processed, your new card typically arrives in 10 to 14 business days by mail. Online applications are processed fastest. Mail-in applications take 2 to 4 weeks total. There is no way to get a same-day replacement card.

Can I replace my Social Security card online?

Yes, if you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address and a driver's license or state ID from a participating state. Log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov and select "Replace Your Social Security Card." Most states now participate in the online replacement program.

How many times can I replace my Social Security card?

You can get up to 3 replacement cards per calendar year and 10 in your lifetime. Cards issued for name changes or immigration status changes do not count toward these limits. Exceptions for significant hardship may be granted on a case-by-case basis.

What if I do not have any form of ID?

If you have no primary ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport), the SSA may accept secondary documents such as an employee ID, school ID, health insurance card, or military ID. If you have no ID at all, contact your local SSA office to discuss your situation, or reach out to a Legal Aid organization or reentry program for help navigating the process.

Do I need my Social Security card for a job?

No. Employers need your Social Security number but do not require the physical card. For the I-9 employment verification form, your Social Security card is one of many acceptable List C documents, but you can also use a birth certificate or other documents. Your employer cannot demand to see the actual card if you provide other acceptable documentation.

What if someone stole my Social Security card?

Replace the card using the steps above. Also consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit reports with the three major bureaus (Equifax, Experian, TransUnion). Monitor your credit for suspicious activity. Report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. If you believe your Social Security number is being used fraudulently, contact the SSA Office of the Inspector General.

Can someone else apply for my replacement card for me?

Generally, you must apply for your own replacement card. However, a parent or legal guardian can apply for a child's replacement card. If you are unable to apply yourself due to a disability or other circumstances, a legal representative or someone acting on your behalf with proper authorization may be able to assist. Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 for guidance.