To get a replacement Social Security card, you can follow these steps:
1. Determine if you can apply online
- If you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older,
- Have a driver's license or state-issued ID from a participating state,
- Have a U.S. mailing address,
- Have a my Social Security account,
- And do not need to change your name, date of birth, or other information,
then you can request a replacement card online through your personal my Social Security account
2. Apply online (if eligible)
- Log in to your my Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount.
- Select "Replace your Social Security Card."
- Verify your identity by providing your name, SSN, date of birth, and ID information.
- Complete the application and submit it.
- Your replacement card will be mailed to your verified address, usually within 14 business days
3. Apply in person or by mail (if not eligible online)
- Download and complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card).
- Gather required original documents proving:
- Identity (e.g., driver’s license, state ID, or U.S. passport),
- U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status (if applicable),
- Age (if changing date of birth).
- Visit your local Social Security office or mail the application and documents to the SSA.
- The SSA will return your original documents after processing
4. Special cases requiring office visit
- Replacing a card for a child,
- Non-U.S. citizens without work authorization,
- Name changes or other record changes,
- Lack of an unexpired state-issued ID,
- No U.S. mailing address.
In these cases, you must visit a local SSA office to complete the process
Summary of required documents
- Proof of identity: current driver’s license, state ID, or U.S. passport.
- Proof of citizenship: U.S. birth certificate or passport.
- Proof of immigration status (if not a citizen): green card, work permit, or I-94.
- Name change documents (if applicable): marriage certificate, court order, etc.
By following these steps and providing the proper documentation, you can obtain a replacement Social Security card either online or in person. The process typically takes about two weeks after your application is approved
