It can be frustrating to realize that you need a Social Security replacement card. However, getting a new card can be fairly straightforward; you just need to have the right documentation for the agency to issue you a new one. But if you set up your My Social Security account before September 18, 2021, you should know that the way you log into your account has changed.
Here are four things you need to know about getting a Social Security replacement card.
1. You can apply for a Social Security replacement card online
Applying for a Social Security replacement card online through your my Social Security account is usually the most convenient option. You can only use the online application if you don’t need to make any changes, such as updating your name. You also have to be an adult with a driver’s license or a non-driver ID card and live in one of the states that verify state-issued documents for the Social Security Administration.
If you created an account with Social Security before September 18, 2021, and if you sign in with a username versus your email address, you will be asked to change your Social Security login credentials to Login.gov. In September 2024, these accounts were retired, so you should consider setting up an account with Login.gov or ID.me sooner rather than later.
Your card will typically arrive within two weeks if you apply online. The online application can be found here.
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2. You can apply for a Social Security replacement card by mail
To apply for a new card through the mail, you will need to mail an application along with proof of your identity, such as a non-driver ID, driver’s license or passport, to the Social Security Administration. These forms of ID are considered to be “primary” evidence of your identity.
For the documentation to work, it must be current, show your name and birth date or age, and be an original or certified copy. Social Security will return any documents you send them. It could take two to four weeks for your application to be processed and your documents returned.
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3. Getting a new Social Security card because of a name change
To change your name on a Social Security card, you must submit proof of your identity — this can be either a primary or secondary document described above — and documentation showing your name change. This can include a marriage certificate, a court order approving the name change, a divorce decree or a Certificate of Naturalization.
To complete a name change online, go to the Social Security "change name" site and answer a few basic questions to learn what documents are required.
You may be able to send the Social Security Administration just one document if it shows your previous name, age, birth date or parents’ names. This information must then match your Social Security records.
Again, any documents you mail to the Social Security Administration will be returned to you.
You may also go to a Social Security branch to present your documents in person. To find your local office, enter your zip code using the Social Security office locator. The agency discourages in-person visits to its offices, however, and recommends that you first check the Office Closings and Emergencies site before you visit one.
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4. Getting help over the phone or in person
Fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) and bring it to your local office along with unexpired identification. Documents must be original or have a signature, stamp, or raised seal from the issuing agency. The Social Security Administration doesn't accept photocopies.
You can find the Social Security location nearest to you here. You will generally get your Social Security card replacement in about two weeks with an in-person visit. Some large cities have dedicated Social Security Card Centers where you can apply for a new card.
You can also speak with someone over the phone if you have a question about getting a replacement card. The office locator provides the phone number for each office. Otherwise, you can call the national phone number at 1-800-772-1213.