How Do I Replace My Social Security Card?

Losing your Social Security card can feel stressful, but replacing it is usually straightforward. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has made the process more user-friendly over the years, and most people can apply for a replacement online in just a few minutes. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you understand your options, the documents you’ll need, and what to expect.

Why You Might Need a Replacement Card

In most situations, you don’t need to show your physical Social Security card. Your number is what matters, and employers, banks, and government agencies can verify it electronically. Still, a replacement card may be necessary when:

• You’re starting a new job and the employer specifically asks for the physical card

• You need it for Real ID applications in some states

• You’re completing certain government or financial processes

• Your card was lost or stolen and you want an updated one for your own records

If your card was stolen, you should also keep an eye on your credit reports in case someone tries to misuse your number.

Step 1: Decide Whether You Can Apply Online

The fastest way to get a replacement is through your online Social Security account. You can request a new card online if all of the following are true:

1. You are a U.S. citizen.

2. You are age 18 or older.

3. You have a U.S. mailing address.

4. You are not requesting a name change.

5. Your state participates in the SSA’s online card-replacement service. (Most do.)

If you haven’t created an SSA account before, you’ll be guided through an identity-verification process that may involve answering personal questions or verifying your identity through Login.gov or another verification partner.

When online replacement isn’t allowed

The online option won’t work if:

• You need to update your legal name due to marriage, divorce, or court order

• You are not a U.S. citizen

• Your state does not currently support online replacements

• You are applying on behalf of a child or another person

If any of those apply, you’ll need to apply either by mail or in person.

Step 2: Gather Required Identification Documents

Whether you apply online, by mail, or in person, the SSA requires original documents (or copies certified by the issuing agency). Photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted.

Primary documents

For U.S. citizens, valid options include:

• U.S. passport (unexpired)

• U.S. driver’s license

• State-issued non-driver ID card

If you don’t have one of the above, the SSA may accept other documents such as:

• U.S. military ID

• Certificate of Naturalization

• Certificate of Citizenship

• Health insurance or Medicaid card (not Medicare)

• School ID (for students)

For non-citizens, documents such as I-94, Green Card, or work authorization card (EAD) may be required.

The exact documents depend on your citizenship and circumstances, so double-check SSA’s official requirements if your case is unusual.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application (Form SS-5)

If you cannot complete the application online, you’ll use Form SS-5: Application for a Social Security Card. This is the same form used for new cards, changes, and replacements.

You can get Form SS-5 in three ways:

• Download it from SSA’s official website

• Pick it up at a Social Security office

• Request it by phone

The form asks for basic information: name, Social Security number (if known), date and place of birth, citizenship status, parents' names, and mailing address.

Be sure to sign the form—unsigned applications are returned.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Option 1: Online submission

If you’re eligible for online replacement, simply confirm your details and submit the request digitally. That’s it—no documents to mail, no in-person appointment, and no fee.

Option 2: In-person appointment

If you prefer or are required to apply in person, visit your local Social Security office. Many offices accept walk-ins, but scheduling an appointment can help you avoid long waits.

Bring:

• Your completed Form SS-5

• Your original identification documents

An SSA representative will review your application, return your documents, and process the request.

Option 3: Mail-in application

If you can’t or don’t want to visit an office, you can mail Form SS-5 and your original documents to your local Social Security office.

This option often worries people because they must mail original IDs. However, the SSA returns all original documents once processing is complete. Use secure mailing methods if you’re concerned.

Step 5: Wait for Your New Card

Once the SSA receives and approves your application, they process replacement cards at no cost. You should receive the physical card by mail, usually within 10–14 business days, although processing times vary.

Your replacement card will look just like your old one. Your Social Security number does not change.

Special Situations

Name changes

If you’re legally changing your name, you cannot use the online system. You’ll need to provide proof of your name change, such as:

• Marriage certificate

• Divorce decree

• Court order

These documents must be original or certified.

Replacing a card for a child

Parents or legal guardians can apply for a child’s replacement card. The SSA requires proof of:

• The child’s identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)

• Your identity

• Your relationship to the child

This must be done by mail or in person; online replacement is not available for minors.

Non-citizens

Non-citizens may be able to replace a card depending on their immigration status. You may need to provide valid DHS documents such as:

• Form I-766 (EAD)

• Form I-551 (Green Card)

• Form I-94

The SSA verifies lawful status directly with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

What If Your Social Security Number Was Stolen?

If you lost your card but know your number, the number itself usually isn’t changed. SSA only changes numbers in rare cases involving:

• Severe identity theft that cannot be resolved

• Persistent harassment or life-endangering situations

• Duplicate numbers issued in error

If your card was stolen, take these steps:

1. Freeze your credit with all major bureaus.

2. Monitor your financial accounts for unusual activity.

3. Review your credit reports for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries.

4. Report identity theft to the FTC if you believe your number is being misused.

A replacement Social Security card will not stop fraud, so staying proactive is essential.

How Many Replacement Cards Can You Get?

The SSA sets limits:

• Up to three replacement cards per year

• Up to ten over your lifetime

Legal name changes and immigration-related updates do not count toward those limits.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

People run into unnecessary delays because of simple errors. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Mailing photocopies

SSA does not accept photocopies, notarized copies, or digital images of documents. You must send original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency.

2. Using the wrong form

Only Form SS-5 is accepted for new, corrected, or replacement cards.

3. Forgetting to sign the form

Unsigned forms cannot be processed.

4. Sending the application to the wrong office

Send your documents to your local Social Security office unless SSA directs otherwise.

5. Expecting faster processing during peak seasons

Holidays and the start of the school year often slow processing times.

6. Paying someone to replace your card

Replacement Social Security cards are free. Third-party services cannot speed up the process.

Tips for Keeping Your Card Safe Going Forward

A Social Security card is too important to treat casually. After receiving your replacement card:

• Avoid carrying it in your wallet unless absolutely necessary.

• Store it securely at home (e.g., a fireproof lockbox).

• Limit when you share your number—most organizations don’t need it.

• Be skeptical of phone or email requests for your number.

Being cautious protects you from identity theft and saves you the hassle of future replacements.

Final Thoughts

Replacing a Social Security card is not difficult, but the process varies depending on your citizenship status, the state you live in, and whether you need to update your personal information. For most adults with a stable record, the online method is the fastest and easiest. If you’re applying for a child, requesting a name change, or lack the required online eligibility, mailing your documents or visiting a local SSA office will get the job done.

Losing the card isn’t the end of the world—you can replace it for free as many times as the SSA allows. What matters most is protecting your Social Security number and keeping your identity secure.

If you need help understanding any part of the process or want guidance managing identity-related problems, I’m here to help.