Replace a Social Security card online or with an office visit
Start a free replacement-card request with the Social Security Administration (SSA). The online questions determine whether you can finish online or need an office visit. A replacement card is mailed after processing; a local office cannot print one for you.
Do I need to replace a lost Social Security card?
SSA says a physical card is unnecessary in many situations if you know your number. First identify whether the organization asking for it actually needs the document. Losing the card and needing evidence of the number are related but different problems.
If you need another card, use SSA’s replacement process. The card is free. Keep a replacement request separate from a request to change a name or correct information on the underlying record.
Can I request a replacement Social Security card online?
Start with SSA’s replacement-card questions and identify whose card you need. The service determines the available route for that person and situation. Some requests can be completed through a personal my Social Security account; others require documents at an office.
Follow the route returned by the questions instead of assuming another person’s online eligibility applies to you. If you cannot finish online, keep the instructions identifying the documents and appointment step.
What proof of identity do I need?
SSA requires accepted identity evidence, such as a current U.S. passport, driver’s license, or non-driver identity card. Use original documents or copies certified by the agency holding the original record. Ordinary photocopies and notarized copies do not meet that requirement.
A birth certificate is not identity evidence. People born outside the United States may also need citizenship or current lawful-status evidence. The SS-5 instructions identify additional requirements and alternative documents if the usual identity documents are unavailable.
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An office visit may be needed to examine documents and finish the application, but the office does not print the card. Follow the online instructions for arranging the visit. An appointment can reduce waiting time.
If not starting online, the paper route uses Form SS-5 with the required evidence. Use the submission instructions for the office serving your request rather than sending the form to an address selected from unrelated correspondence.
How do I replace a child’s Social Security card?
Choose the child or other-person route at the start. A person acting for someone else must show the required authority and identity evidence, as well as the child’s evidence. The adult’s ID is not automatically the child’s identity document.
SSA’s instructions describe child-specific evidence, including certain medical or school records. Follow those instructions for the child’s circumstances instead of applying an adult document checklist without changes.
How long does the replacement card take?
SSA says the card arrives by mail in five to ten business days after the request is completed and processed. Time spent arranging an appointment or obtaining documents comes before that delivery period.
Starting online is the route SSA recommends for speed. It does not create a same-day printed-card service. Provide an address where the card can reach you, keep the request confirmation, and contact SSA if you need help with the instructions.
FAQ
Will a replacement give me a new Social Security number?
The ordinary replacement process replaces the card for the existing record. It is different from applying for a first number.
Does a birth certificate prove identity by itself?
SSA says a birth certificate is not accepted as identity evidence. Follow the identity-document instructions for your request.