How to Replace a Social Security Card
An independent, plain-English guide. See whether you can replace your card online, what documents you need, and the official SSA links to use.
The short answer
- Replacement cards are free. The SSA never charges a fee.
- Many U.S. citizens age 18+ can apply online through a my Social Security account at SSA.gov.
- If you can't apply online, you can apply by mail or in person at a local SSA office.
- Lost or stolen? You usually do not need the physical card — your number is what matters. Consider a free credit fraud alert.
Can I replace my card online?
You can request a replacement card online if all of these are true:
- You are a U.S. citizen, age 18 or older
- You have a U.S. mailing address (including APO, FPO, or DPO)
- You are not requesting a name change or any other change to your card
- You have a driver's license or state-issued ID from a participating state or D.C.
- You are applying for yourself, not for someone else
- You have (or can create) a my Social Security account at SSA.gov
If any of these do not apply to you, you'll need to apply by mail or in person. See who qualifies for the online option.
How replacing your card works
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Confirm you're eligible
Check the list above. If you don't qualify online, you'll apply by mail or in person.
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Gather your documents
You'll need proof of identity (driver's license, state ID, or U.S. passport). Citizenship and name-change documents are required in some cases. See the full document list.
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Apply through SSA
Apply online through a my Social Security account, by mail using Form SS-5, or in person at a local SSA office. SSA never charges a fee.
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Wait for your card
The SSA mails the replacement card to the address on file. Processing times vary; plan for a few weeks.
Find your situation
Replace online →
Who qualifies and how the SSA online process works.
Documents needed →
Identity, citizenship, and name-change documents.
Lost or stolen card →
What to do right now to protect yourself.
Replace for a child →
Replacing or applying for a child's card.
Name change or corrected card →
Update your card after marriage, divorce, or a legal name change.
FAQ →
Answers to the most common questions.
Lost or stolen — read this first
You usually don't need the card itself.
Most employers, banks, and agencies accept your Social Security number — not the paper card. Memorize the number and store the card somewhere safe at home.
If you suspect identity theft
Place a free fraud alert with one of the three credit bureaus and review your credit report. Report identity theft at IdentityTheft.gov. Then request a replacement card through SSA.gov when convenient.
More detail: what to do if your Social Security card is lost or stolen.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace my Social Security card online?
You can request a replacement online if you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address, are not changing your name, have a driver's license or state ID from a participating state, are not applying for someone else, and have a my Social Security account at SSA.gov.
How much does a replacement card cost?
It is free. The SSA never charges a fee for a replacement Social Security card. If a website asks you to pay, it is not the SSA.
What documents do I need?
You generally need proof of identity such as a U.S. driver's license, state ID, or U.S. passport. If your citizenship is not already on record with SSA, you also need proof of U.S. citizenship. If your name has changed, you must provide a marriage document, divorce decree, court order, or similar legal proof. See the full document list.
What if my card is lost or stolen?
You usually do not need the physical card itself. Consider a free fraud alert with the credit bureaus and check your credit report. Then request a replacement through SSA.gov when convenient. See lost or stolen card guidance.
Is this site the Social Security Administration?
No. This is an independent informational website. It is not affiliated with the Social Security Administration or any government agency. For official applications, always use SSA.gov.