A Faster and More Convenient Way to Request a Social Security Number and Card
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: April 18, 2025
Do you need an original Social Security number or a replacement Social Security card? We offer a faster and more convenient way for you to start – and possibly finish – the application online.
When you visit our Social Security number and card page, we’ll ask you a few questions to determine the best way for you to apply. You may be able to:
- Complete the application online.
- Start the application online, self-schedule an appointment, then bring any required documents to your local Social Security office or card center to complete the process.
- Schedule an in-office appointment to complete your application. If you are not able to use our online option or you do not get the option to schedule an appointment online, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment at a local office or card center.
By starting the application online, your in-office visit will typically take less time.
Note: We have recently expanded appointment-based services as part of our ongoing efforts to serve you more efficiently. If you need to visit a local Social Security office or card center, please make an appointment.
Finish your application in the office
Before your visit to complete your application, please follow these steps:
- Determine what documents you need to bring with you. They must be originals or certified copies.
- Follow directions at the kiosk when you arrive at the office. Our Mobile Check-in Express makes it easier to check in. To use Mobile Check-in Express, scan the QR code posted near the entrance and turn on your mobile notifications. We’ll alert you when we’re ready to help you.
- Meet with one of our employees who will verify the information you submitted online and review your documents. We don’t need to keep them.
That’s it! Whether you apply for a Social Security card online or at an office, we’ll process the application and mail a card to you, usually within 14 business days.
For more helpful information, watch our videos:
- Your Social Security Number & Card: What You Need to Know.
- Cards for U.S. Citizens – Children.
- Cards for Non-U.S. Citizens – Adults.
Please share this information with your friends and family – and post it on social media.
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Tags: General Information, online services, Social Security card
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Norma S.
I’m trying to make an appointment for my Aunt and uncle
Maria Rosario Contreras de Sosa
Rosalie Sosa Aguirre
Robert A.
i know my card number,but i dont have id how can i get a free card,i lost my wallet with what little bit of id in my wallet im 74 years old with no driver licence, no non drivers id just my ss card and birth certificate ,i need help
Onyx
There should be an option to receive immediate replacement cards at the office near you so that those who just need to get one can walk in and get them same day. I’m sure some of us would even pay for the option. Some of us need those cards to get the new real id and that alone takes two weeks to get. I had to cancel a medical trip due to the new travel policies going into effect. I can’t get a real id without a SS card and I can’t get a real id even though my state id is still valid. This whole system is hurting to disabled persons like myself.
Brenda E.
I am very frustrated with all the service by sso. I need to get an application. I was on the phone with a rep at the number provided and she set up the appointment but never said that an application was needed. Your instructions state that I can get on by visiting the office, that is so not true. Been at the office in SA TX and they wouldn’t even speak to me but to tell me I need and appt. Made that and now finding out I need an application for a “REPLACEMENT SOCIAL SECURITY CARD.” When trying to apply on line, it stops because I don’t have “current” drivers license and sends me to the OHSNAP page. This has really gotten to be a mess. I need the application that is required for the in person appointment that I have already gotten. Please tell me how to get this! Some times the old ways worked better, we got assistance when we walked in and not told to come back for an appointment and an application should only be needed for NEW ss card requests.
Brenda E.
I am very frustrated with all the service by sso. I need to get an application. I was on the phone with a rep at the number provided and she set up the appointment but never said that an application was needed. Your instructions state that I can get on by visiting the office, that is so not true. Been at the office in SA TX and they wouldn’t even speak to me but to tell me I need and appt. Made that and now finding out I need an application for a “REPLACEMENT SOCIAL SECURITY CARD.” When trying to apply on line, it stops because I don’t have “current” drivers license and sends me to the OHSNAP page. This has really gotten to be a mess. I need the application that is required for the in person appointment that I have already gotten. Please tell me how to get this! So times the old ways worked better, we got assistance when we walked in and not told to come back for an appointment and an application should only be needed for NEW ss card requests.
Suzanne P.
Hello. What is the telephone number of ssa in colo. Springs, colorado on Pikes Peak avenue. I had it yesterday and cannot find the paper it was on. I cannot visit ssa there unless I have an appointment. I definitely have to speak to a representative. Ssa for the past three years says I owe for medicare past premiums. Medicare tells me I have no past premiums due. This past March 31 they flagged my account with ssa and told me they are holding all my benefits until January 1, 2025. I want a paper itemization of all the months they are saying I did not make payments to medicare. No one from ssa has ever told me prior to income tax time that there is a problem. Medicare keeps telling me not to pay, $2,9 and some dollars due to medicare, because I do not owe them anything. I am not appreciative of how ssa does not check with medicare to verify that I owe them money. Also, my bank Is retrieving the yearly payment checks from me to Medicare. How do I get an itemization of each year’s balance from medicare? This .continual mistake WILl Definitely be corrected this year. Please help me