Social Security Number and Card

Guard Your Card: Protect What’s Important to You 

June 5, 2025 • By

Reading Time: 1 Minute

Last Updated: June 5, 2025

For your protection, we urge you not to carry your Social Security card unless it is needed. The best way to “Guard Your Card” is to keep it in a safe place and share it only when required, which is rare.

In fact, in most cases, just knowing your Social Security number should be enough.

Please be careful about sharing your number when asked for it. You should always ask why your number is needed, how it will be used, and what will happen if you refuse. Also, you shouldn’t carry documents with you that display your Social Security number.

For more safety tips, please read our factsheet, How You Can Help Us Protect Your Social Security Number and Keep Your Information Safe. Our Guard Your Card infographic is another great resource to understand when you need to show your card.

If you need a replacement Social Security card, we make it easy. Visit our Social Security number & card page and answer a few questions to determine the best way to apply. You may be able to start – and possibly complete – the application process online. If you need to visit a Social Security or card center, you may have the option to self-schedule an appointment online to show your required documents and finish the process. If you are unable to self-schedule an appointment online, please contact us to make an appointment before coming into an office.

For information about changing your name on your Social Security card due to marriage, read our blog post.

Please share this with your friends and family – and post on social media.

Did you find this Information helpful?

Yes
No
Thanks for your feedback!

Tags: ,

See Comments

About the Author

Social Security Administration

Social Security Administration

Related Articles

Social Security Introduces Secure Digital Access to Social Security Numbers

A Faster and More Convenient Way to Request a Social Security Number and Card 

Resolve to Protect Yourself From Scams This Year

10 Ways to Protect Your Personal Information

Comments

  1. BRI303

    “This was such an eye-opening read. If you’re interested in expanding on this topic, I’ve shared some unique perspectives here”
    BRI303

  2. BRI303

    “Really valuable content. I’ve posted something similar—you’re welcome to take a look!” – https://bri303alternatif.it.com/

  3. BRI303

    “Nice work! I explored this from another angle on my blog. Visit if you’re curious!”
    BRI303

  4. BRI303 R.

    “Looking for something truly different? You might want to check this out!”
    👉 BRI303 RTP

  5. JMTOTO

    Fantastic breakdown! I’ve gained a fresh perspective thanks to your explanation.

    https://xstok.com

    • Montze S.

      You are most welcome, appreciate your thoughts, sincerely Montze Rayshaun Smith

  6. JMTOTO

    Brilliantly explained! I’m walking away with new insights today.
    https://jmtoto.it.com

  7. PRIMBONTOTO

    Menarik sekali pembahasannya! Btw, buat yang lagi cari situs ramalan angka berdasarkan primbon, bisa cek primbontoto.

  8. Richard D.

    Thanks to all spread love

  9. Vin

    Is this related at all to the goverment vin databse?

  10. rani

    Great post! I really learned something new today. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
    https://tasc.eu.com/

    • jerrell d.

      I WILL LIKE A Scholle a Carlyle Card

Comments are closed.