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Legal & Civic

Replacing a Social Security card

A replacement card is free. Start online at SSA.gov; the card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. You may not need the card at all if you know your number.

Easy15 min to doFree

You'll need

  • Proof of identity, like a driver's license or state ID

Do it like this

  1. Ask whether you need it. In most cases, the physical card isn't necessary if you know your number (SSA).
  2. Start the application online at SSA.gov. That's the fastest way (SSA).
  3. If you can't finish online, make an appointment at a local office (SSA).
  4. Watch your mail. The card arrives in 5 to 10 business days (SSA).
  5. Store it at home in a safe place. Don't carry it in your wallet.
Watch out. A replacement card from SSA is free (SSA). You don't need to pay a website to apply for you.

If it doesn't work

  • Card stolen and worried about misuse? Report it to the FTC at IdentityTheft.gov (SSA).
  • Your local office can't print a card on the spot. Apply online or by appointment (SSA).
  • Got a call from someone claiming to be SSA asking for your number? Hang up. Real agencies won't call to ask for your SSN (FTC).

Good to know

Name change

Tell SSA if your name or other personal information changes (SSA).

A new number is rare

Only in rare cases do people qualify for a new number (SSA).

Ask before you share

Some places ask for your SSN but don't need it. Ask if the last four digits will do (FTC).

Sources

  1. Social Security Administration Replace a Social Security card
  2. Social Security Administration Social Security number and card
  3. Federal Trade Commission What to know about identity theft

Lesson L1.2 · Last checked October 2, 2026 against the sources listed. See a mistake?