The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues replacement Social Security cards at no cost. You can request a replacement online, by mail, or in person at an SSA office.
34 steps across 9 sections
1. Option 1: Online (Fastest and Easiest)
- Visit ssa.gov/myaccount
- Create or log into your my Social Security account
- Follow the replacement card request process
- U.S. citizen age 18 or older
- Have a U.S. mailing address
- Have a valid driver's license or state-issued ID from a participating state/DC
- Are NOT requesting a name change or any other card changes
- Most states now participate in the online replacement program
2. Option 2: In Person
- Visit your local SSA office
- Find locations at ssa.gov/locator
- Bring required identity documents (originals or certified copies)
- Complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card)
- Many offices require or recommend an appointment
3. Option 3: By Mail
- Download and complete Form SS-5 from ssa.gov
- Mail the completed form with required original documents to your local SSA office
- SSA will return your documents by mail
- Processing 2-4 weeks plus mailing time both ways
- Use a secure/trackable mailing method since you are sending original documents
4. For a Straightforward Replacement (No Changes)
- U.S. driver's license
- State-issued non-driver ID card
5. If Born Outside the US
- U.S. citizenship (U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship), OR
- Current lawful work-authorized immigration status (I-551/Green Card, I-94, Employment Authorization Document)
6. For Name Changes
- Legal document showing the name change: marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order
- Plus identity document in EITHER your old or new name
7. Document Requirements
- All documents must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency
- SSA does NOT accept photocopies or notarized copies
- SSA will return all original documents after processing
8. Exceptions to the Limits
- Legal name changes (marriage, divorce, court order)
- Changes in immigration status that require a card update
- Card changes due to SSA administrative error
- Situations involving significant hardship (determined case by case)
9. Important Notes on Limits
- The limits apply to the physical card, not your Social Security number
- You rarely need the physical card itself — most employers and agencies accept other proof of your SSN
- If you hit the lifetime limit, you can request an exception for hardship
Common Mistakes
- Carrying the card in your wallet
- Using third-party websites that charge fees
- Sending photocopies instead of originals
- Not reporting a stolen card
- Requesting unnecessary replacements