To get a replacement Social Security card, you can follow these steps:
- Determine if you can apply online
- If you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address and have a driver’s license or state-issued ID from a participating state, you may be able to request a replacement card online by logging into your personal "my Social Security" account on the SSA website
- Apply online or in person
- If you qualify, complete the application online and your card will be mailed to your verified address.
- If you cannot apply online (for example, if you are not a U.S. citizen, need a name change, or lack a qualifying ID), you will need to complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) and submit it in person at a local Social Security office or Card Center
- Gather required documents
- You must provide proof of identity with a current document showing your name, date of birth or age, and preferably a recent photo (e.g., U.S. driver’s license, state ID, or U.S. passport).
- If you were born outside the U.S., you must also provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status (e.g., birth certificate, U.S. passport, green card, or work permit)
- Submit your application
- For in-person applications, bring your completed Form SS-5 and original or certified copies of your documents to the Social Security office. Photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted. Your original documents will be returned to you
- Receive your replacement card
- After your application is processed and documents verified, your replacement card will be mailed to you, usually within 14 business days
Additional notes:
- There is no fee for a replacement Social Security card.
- You are limited to three replacement cards per year and 10 in a lifetime, with some exceptions for legal name changes or changes in immigration status
This process applies similarly if you are replacing a child's Social Security card, though you may need to visit the office to complete the application
. In summary, start by checking if you can apply online via your "my Social Security" account. If not, complete Form SS-5 and visit your local Social Security office with the required documents to get your replacement card
