So You’ve Lost Your Social Security Card
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: November 3, 2023
Losing important documents is frustrating, especially something as important as your Social Security card.
You’ll want to consider whether you really need to get a replacement card. Knowing your number is what’s important, after all. You’ll rarely need the card itself — perhaps only when you get a new job and have to show it to your employer. If you really must replace your card, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber before visiting your local Social Security office.
The first step is to learn what documents you need. You’ll need to show us a U.S. driver’s license, a state issued non-driver identification card, or a U.S. passport to prove your identity. Sometimes you may also need to prove your current U.S. citizenship or lawful noncitizen status with a birth certificate or passport.
Keep in mind that all documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We can’t accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents. We also can’t accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.
Once you’re clear on what documents you’ll need, the second step is to print the Application for a Social Security Card, so you can fill it out. Finally, the third step is to bring or mail your application and original documents to us, and the online process will take you to a screen where you can find the address of your local office.
In some areas, you can request a replacement Social Security card using your online my Social Security account if you meet certain requirements. Simply access your account and follow the instructions to replace your Social Security card. It’s safe, convenient and secure.
You can replace your Social Security card for free if it’s lost or stolen. Avoid service providers wanting to charge you a fee to get your replacement card. Keep in mind that you’re limited to three replacement cards in a year, and 10 during your lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions don’t count toward these limits. Changes in immigration status that require card updates may not count toward these limits. Also, you aren’t affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.
We’ll mail your card as soon as we have all of your information and have verified your documents. Your replacement card will have the same name and number as your previous card.
Did you find this Information helpful?
Tags: Social Security benefits, Social Security card, SSN
See CommentsAbout the Author
Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Comments
Comments are closed.
Vern D.
A year or so ago there was a blog from the Medicare office indicating a ‘new system’ is being worked on to issue more durable medicare cards, plus a computer generated encrypted number, so that us ‘seniors’ would no longer have to carry our SS # around on our medical card. Haven’t heard, but sure hope THAT happens soon!
R.F.
Hi! The Medicare program, including Medicare cards, is managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Here are some suggestions to keep your personal information safe while using your Medicare card.
Sarah
It is happening soon Vern! Cards are going to be issued out starting next year. Social Security and Medicare hopes to have EVERYONE receive a new Medicare card by 2020 without the SSN on them 🙂
R.F.
The Medicare program, including Medicare cards, is managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
rasul
Hi.jim
Please what is the process of getting an approval from the department of homeland security for a work authorization to begin the application of my social security number.
Thank you,
Best regards
Rasul
R.F.
For information on how to obtain employment authorization, visit the official website of the Department of Homeland Security/United States and Immigration Services. Thanks!
Debbie
If you use the vita tax program you can not have your taxes done without producing your SS card- not sure how good this advice is
Lori
I agree.
Candice
As an employer I totally AGREE and was shocked to see that they even wrote this! I have had 3 employees give me a wrong# in the past – 2 transposed the numbers and had memorized it that way and one had “bought” the number. During payroll I paid to the # I was given… only to discover the error at later dates. I always ask to see the card myself now – to write the # down under the scrutiny of my own eyes.
R.F.
Thank you for your comment Candice. Employers often ask to see an employee’s Social Security card. The Internal Revenue Service’s Publication 15 (Circular E), Employer’s Tax Guide, states, “You should ask your employee to show you his or her social security card. The employee may show the card if it is available.” But, do you really need to see the card? While not required, SSA provides a service for employers to verify a name and SSN for wage reporting purposes when you want additional assurance of an employee’s correct name and SSN. Visit “Social Security Number Verifications” for complete information.
Waen R.
Is there any case that I can get new social security number to replace the old number? I case someone use mine to commit fraud?
Thank you,
WR
mikl
Our president has no birth certificate …so why should I need one?
Edward A.
That is, of course, absolute and complete nonsense, proving it is possible to fool some of the people all of the time; here’s a link to President Obama’s birth certificate:
https://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/rss_viewer/birth-certificate-long-form.pdf
Eileen T.
He does SO! He showed it! He was born in Hawaii. U got a problem with that? R u a trump supporter? He’s a liar. Hillary is a liar. This country (which already IS, and always WILL be GREAT!) is pretty much screwed. BUT…
We DO have a third choice! Jill Stein for president!! ???????????????
R.F.
Thank you for your question Waen. We can assign a different Social Security number only in certain situations. See our Frequently Asked Questions web page to see what actions you can take if you suspect someone is using your Social Security number.
Jon
How can I change my number on ssn if someone know my number and information
R.F.
Hi Jon, we do not routinely assign different Social Security numbers. If you suspect someone is using your Social Security number, you should go to http://www.idtheft.gov and report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). For more information on what you should do if you suspect someone is using your Social Security number and to see if you should file for a new Social Security number, please read our publication “Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number”. Thanks.
Ed W.
What if the person who lost the card has no driver’s license or other government issued ID? This is a student who no longer lives at home and has only his birth certificate and perhaps an expired student ID from another state?
R.F.
Hi Ed, we can accept only certain documents as proof of identity. Any documents submitted, must be current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age). Click here to learn what documents you can use to get a replacement Social Security card. In addition, depending on your state of residence, you may even be able to apply for a replacement card online. For complete instructions, please go to New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card.
Roosevelt J.
You haven’t answered his question. The website asks for government I.d. but if both are stolen what do you do? both require the other.
D P.
Agreed-this is the classic catch 22-lost the SSN and DL-have a birth certificate-and am being told “you can’t prove your identity” so cannot get a replacement card to get a new DL
And I have YET to find a SSA employee who can answer this.
Can my MOTHER request it?
..
Hello D Palmer. Please visit New Or Replacement Social Security Number And Card for a list of documents that you can use for a replacement Social Security card. If you do not have a U.S. driver’s license, state-issued identification card or a U.S. passport, then we can use other documents. The documents must be current and show your name, identifying information such as date of birth or age and preferably a recent photograph. This could be an employee identification card, school identification card, health insurance card or a U.S. military identification card. Hope this helps.
Dave
I agree my daughter had everything stolen. We cannot get her a drivers license without a SA card which we cannot get. SSA can not answer this question. We can get a replacement birth certificate, but SSA wants more. If you call the SS office and can stand the 1-2 hour wait, they have nothing to answer the question.
R.F.
Hi Dave. Yes, we prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity to replace your Social Security card. If your daughter does not have one or cannot get one within a reasonable amount of time, we may be able to use other documents such as:
•Employee identification card;
•School identification card;
•Health insurance card; or
•U.S. military identification card.
Documents must be originals or certified copies, current (not expired) and show the applicant’s name, and other identifying information such as date of birth or age.
To see if your daughter is eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents she will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
paulette h.
I am going through the same thing. School ID’s, health insurance cards, etc.,do not have a birth date. This catch 22 is keeping my daughter from getting work. She has nothing that fits the SS criterion. Will getting a lawyer help? I’ve spent hours at Soc Security offices and on the phone and no one can help.
jin
what if you are non us citizen and your in the process of renewing you alien resident card. and you want to replace social security card
Daviid
Another question – what if you only have an older student ID and are applying for someone with special needs that has lost their card?
Corey P.
Hello I lost my ssc as soon as I got it replaced, i no longer have identification.my question is can my parents get a replacement card for me i am 22
R.F.
Hi Corey. First, realize you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. However, if you must get a replacement card, you must have to apply directly, your parents cannot apply for you. We offer the option to mail your completed application with the required original or certified documents to your local Social Security office or card center. Any documents you mail to us will be returned to you along with a receipt. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Debbie T.
Why doesn’t SSA issue a more durable card? Mine is so raggedy and I’m afraid to ask for a replacement because I don’t know how many time’s I’ve already replaced it. If our cards were at least as durable as a credit card or even one of those metal ones that aren’t legal, there would be far less need for replacements.
R.F.
Hi Debbie. The Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004 (Public Law 108-458 ) limits the number of replacement SSN cards an individual may receive to 3 per year and 10 in a lifetime, beginning with cards issued on or after December 17, 2005.
Eileen T.
Or if we were allowed to make it durable on ou own, such as laminating it. Why aren’t we allowed to? That makes no sense at all to me. I didn’t even knkw about that law till i was actually going to. I’d bought the laminate and all and was gonna do this and a friend of mine said, “STOP! You’re not allowed to do that.” I thought he was kidding. Nope. It’s a ridiculous law altogether.
maria r.
You only need to replace card if you are job hunting and below a certain age. After 60, you have plenty proof of number through paychecks and income tax, so filing for Social Security and Medicare is not a problem, since you are already on file. (That form you get that shows your earnings). Those people who work on “special” payroll that doesn’t show up on earnings form will need a copy of Social Security card.
eileen g.
thank you for your formative emails – eileen stockton
Stephanie
Lost my card a couple of months ago. It has been replaced. I hope this email is a very late response to the process.
Sampa
That does not make any sense.
Micky L.
Jim,
I just wanted to say that you are doing a fabulous job communicating to the American public. I love your efforts and wish more agencies were so open! Keep up the good work and please try to use your influence to convince others to do the same! Take care,
Micky
John O.
Yes, Micky, he is doing a fine job. First off if you’ve lost your SS card you NEVER have to produce a birth certificate, NEVER. You NEVER show a passport to prove citizenship. When you received your card the first time these issues were taken care of. The passport can be used in lieu of a driver’s license for identity purposes. And who wants to mail in their driver’s license? Can you do without it for a week or two? Best advice, just go into the local SS office and apply there for a new card.
joanne
AGREE!!
What he doesn’t tell you is the Procedure for Getting a new SS number when yours has been stolen at a Border town in Arizona while applying as a Teacher at a Public School. You can’t get a new SS#, according to SS phone lines.
R.F.
Hi Joanne. We can assign a different Social Security number only in certain situations. See our Frequently Asked Questions web page to see what actions you can take if you suspect someone is using your Social Security number. We hope this information helps.
Jennifer S.
I’d like to no how to get a replacement card for my daughter who just turned 18 and has not had one for years as it was stolen and I don’t no her number
A.C.
Hello, Jennifer. Now that your daughter is 18, she must apply for a replacement card on her own. To see if she’s eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents she will need to get a card please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Umme
Hi, i m going through very frustrated situation because last night when i was on my job someone entered my appartment and stole my green card and social security. I am very much worried how i get my green card nd SSC.
Katia
Hi, I lost my ssn card when my purse was stolen.. I filed a police report and went to the social security office to replace my ssn, but the woman at the desk said I have to show her ” Citizan Neutralization papers” I told her i was adapted when I was little, my parents did immigration papers before I came here.. I don’t know what to do..and I really need to replace my card for my new job..
R.F.
Hi Katia. Although foreign-born children may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship, SSA requires them to provide proof that they are U.S. citizens. In addition, you will also be required to provide proof of identification to get a replacement Social Security card. If your naturalization certificate is lost, stolen, or damaged you may need to request a new copy. Please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Naturalization Services web page for more information. Thanks!
Helen
I am frustrated because my sons friend who is living with us has never had an i.d. and is trying to get one. He has his birth certificate and social security number but no social security card. He needs photo i.d. to get s.s card but needs ss card to get photo i.d. I don’t know what to do. He can’t do anything without an i.d. He needs a job and to get in school.
A.C.
Hi, Helen. We prefer a government issued document with the individual’s picture, as proof of identity to replace a Social Security card. If your son’s friend does not have one or he cannot get one within a reasonable amount of time, we may be able to help him by using other documents. Any documents he submits, must be originals or certified copies, current (not expired) and show his name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age). To see if he’s eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents he will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. For specific questions, he can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. We hope this helps!
Yohanna
Hi’ I have a question I lost my social security card months ago… What do I do first? I’ve been trying to find websites or phone numbers so I could report it stolen.. But I just can’t… Help
A.C.
Hi, Yohanna. We are sorry to hear that your card was stolen. Realize you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. If you suspect someone is using your Social Security number, you should report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission or call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338). For more information please read our publication, Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number. We hope this helps.
Kayla
Do they send your social security by certified mail or regular mail?
Brittney F.
Hello. I lost my SS card as well as my ID somewhere at work. Is there a way I can replace with some type of proof to get it renew?
R.F.
Hi Brittney, we prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity to replace your Social Security card. If you do not have one or you cannot get one within a reasonable amount of time, we may be able to use other documents such as:
•Employee identification card;
•School identification card;
•Health insurance card or a certified copy of medical record (clinic, doctor, or hospital); or
•U.S. military identification card.
Any documents you submit, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age). Also, realize that you may not need a replacement card, you will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. If you are a U.S. citizen, live in selected states or the District of Columbia, you may now be able to request a replacement card online. To learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
R.F.
Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page for complete information on how to obtain a Social Security card.
Umme
Hi, i m going through very frustrated situation because last night when i was on my job someone entered my appartment and stole my green card and social security. I am very much worried how i get my green card nd SSC. Can u suggest me anything?
R.F.
If you are a permanent resident and need to replace your green card, please visit the Department of Homeland Security website at http://www.uscis.gov. You can replace your Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. However, you may not need to get a replacement card, knowing your Social Security number is what’s important. Generally, you will have to show us proof of your current immigration status. Please call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. and speak with one of our representatives for further assistance. To learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a Social Security card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps.
Riezelle B.
Hello…i have the same problem…i was wondering if you ever got your social security card with a green card…and what documents i need to show them i am a permanent resident?!
Dongho
Umme,
I have same situation like you.
I recently had break in my house.
someone stole all my papers social security card, passport including green card as well.
I have reported police, a major credit union and I got credit monitoring service.
first thing we need to do is get a green card replaced by starting form I-90. it is $540.
Tobias D.
I did the process on october 13, 2016, and followed up november 7, and still no replacement card. Left messages etc.
R.F.
Hi Tobias. We are required to verify the documents you submitted when you applied for your Social Security card. Typically, after we receive your application for a Social Security replacement card, and verify your documents, you should receive your Social Security card by mail within 10 business days. If you applied for a first time Social Security card, it may take longer than 30 days. Please continue working with the office where you filed your application and speak to one of our agents about the status of your card. When you go, take the documents you originally presented as evidence. We hope this helps.
DrGonzo888
He never said you HAD to have those things John, the word “OR” is separating them. As in to give options.
Chapman
I just moved to Florida from Indiana, can I go to the Florida office for a new card!
R.F.
Yes, you can go to your local Social Security office or nearest card center in the city where you’re currently living. To learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a replacement Social Security card click here.
Jason G.
Hello, Similarly I moved from TN to OK. But I still have a TN lic. Will I be able to get a replacement card in OK with a TN driver licence? Thank you?
Jason G.
Also, I dont have my Birth Certificate as proof of age/citizenship. Both my SS card and Birth Cert were lost during my move from TN to OK.
R.F.
Hi Jason. Generally, you don’t need to provide us with your birth certificate to get a replacement Social Security card. You may be able to use your TN driver’s license if is valid, not expired. Our representatives will make the final determination, after they verify your documents and information. They will also provide guidance and further assistance. Remember, we don’t always need a replacement card, we rarely need to show it. Knowing the Social Security number is what’s important. To apply in person, you can visit the nearest Social Security office or Card Center in your area. See our “How To Get A New, Replacement Or Corrected Card” web page for more information. Thanks!
Jen
Hi I’m going thru a tough situatjon. All my documents have been stolen a while back. I’m trying to find work because I have been out for years but the documents I’m missing are my SS card, birth certificate, and perminent resident alien card. The only thing I have is a valid driver’s license. Thank you.
R.F.
Hi Jen! While a valid U.S. driver’s license is an acceptable document to apply for a replacement Social Security card, in your case, we will also need evidence of your lawful permanent resident status. If you need to replace your permanent residence card, please visit the Official Website of the Department of Homeland Security. Thanks.
GARETH A.
I am a naturalized US citizen, but automatically through my father. But I don’t have the proof. I have a social security number and need a replacement, but was denied because I didn’t have a passport or naturalization certificate. I have other evidence of citizenship but my father won’t give me his naturalization certificate.. I can’t get a regular job so I have been self employed for the last 10 years. Any suggestions?
K.O.
Hello Gareth. We require all persons applying for an original or replacement Social Security card to present documentary evidence of his or her identity. Any documents you submit, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age). A certified document is basically a photocopy or extract of a file, sealed with a ribbon and the seal of the agency issuing the copy of the document on file.
Also, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. You may call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 and one of our agents can assist you in helping you find a suitable proof of identity document. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. SSA requires each applicant to present documentary evidence of his or her identity due to the growing problem of identity theft and to establish that the person who is applying for a replacement SSN card is the true number holder (i.e., the person to whom SSA originally assigned the SSN). Thank you for your support and understanding.
sandra
ive lost me social security card, and need one asap. Leaving to work for fema, and need it sooner than 10 days. any suggestions
J.Y.
Hi Sandra. First, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. You can visit your local Social Security office or card center to obtain a new or replacement card. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Antonia S.
I sent in an application for a new card and sent my ID with it. I got my card but my ID never came with it. I’m worried why didn’t they aend my ID back I kinda need that I already haven’t had it for almost two weeks
V.V.
Hi Antonia, thank you for using our blog. We certainly do apologize for the delay in receiving your id. Due to the office closings, it will take longer than usual for the local office to return documentation. However, you can call your local Social Security office and follow up. Please look for the general inquiry telephone number at the Social Security Office Locator. The number may appear under Show Additional Office Information. Please be aware that our call wait times are longer than normal. We hope this information helps.
R.F.
Thanks for your comment Micky! Social Security is committed to providing world-class customer service today and in the years to come.
Mariana G.
Hi Ray,
I had a temporary SSN two years ago and can’t find it. I am applying for my OPT and need to include previous SSN assigned. Is there any way I can find it? I have the day of application so maybe this could be helpful?
R.F.
Hi Mariana, you will have to contact us to help you find your Social Security number. Generally, we do not release personal information by phone. Individuals living outside the United Sates should contact their local U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. If you reside in the continental United States, you can visit the nearest Social Security office or card center in your area.
david B.
I’ve lost my wallet. Have no I’d or social security card now and can’t get one without the other. Where do start. I have 3 babies and need a job.
Steph
Start with getting your id all i know is that you can use your birth certificate a paystub or your credit card bill to get that
R.F.
Sorry we missed your question David.We prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity to replace your Social Security card. If you do not have one or you cannot get one within a reasonable amount of time, we may be able to use other documents such as:
•Employee identification card;
•School identification card;
•Health insurance card; or
•U.S. military identification card.
Any documents you submit, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age).
To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Daniel F.
Having the same issue here, have a copy of the SS card and orginal birth certi. but no other proof of idenity. The is a major issue cannot get employment without ID which you can’t get withou SS card which wants your ID Something is really wrong with this picture
Paige p.
Can you get a temp social for a new job? I lost mine and need it in two days.
R.F.
Hi Paige, we do not issue temporary Social Security cards. Generally, we will issue a receipt showing that you have applied for a replacement Social Security card. After we receive your application and verify your documents, you should typically receive your replacement Social Security card by mail within 10 business days. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Umme
Hi, i m going through very frustrated situation because last night when i was on my job someone entered my appartment and stole my green card and social security. I am very much worried how i get my green card nd SSC.
Jennifer C.
My daughter got her purse stolen with he SS card in it. She went into the office and applied for a new card but she starts a new job and the new one has not arrived. are there any options for he?
R.F.
Hi Jennifer! Typically, after we process your request for a replacement Social Security card, you should receive your Social Security card by mail within 10 business days. To follow up on your application for a Social Security replacement card, you may have to return to the office where you filed your application. On your receipt there should be a local phone number for you to call and speak to someone about the status of your card. We hope this helps.
Erica
I’m at the office to apply for a replacement card, very long wait. Will the card be issued to me today? Or just like filling it out online, I should expect it in the mail in 10 business days?
R.F.
Hi Erica. Generally, we will provide you with a receipt showing that you have applied for a replacement Social Security card. After we process your application, you should receive your replacement card by mail within 10 business days. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. Thank you!
Jaz
I forgot my socal secirty number…. I’m dead meat ?
Jay
I lost my social security card and my state i.d. expired how can i get a replacement social security card
R.F.
Hi Jay, we prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity to replace your Social Security card. If you do not have one or you cannot get one within a reasonable amount of time, we may be able to use other documents such as:
•Employee identification card;
•School identification card;
•Health insurance card; or
•U.S. military identification card.
Any documents you submit, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age).
Also, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Sylvia
My brother is in this situation his license is expired… and he does not have any other ID other than his original birth certificate
R.F.
Generally, we only use a birth certificate as a proof of birth and citizenship. We use it to establish an individual’s Social Security number for the first time. We prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity to replace your Social Security card. If your brother does not have one or if he cannot get one within a reasonable amount of time, we may be able to use other documents such as:
•Employee identification card;
•School identification card;
•Health insurance card; or
•U.S. military identification card.
Any documents he submits, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show his name, and other identifying information (such as his date of birth or age). To learn more on the process and what documents he will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
William
I’m American citizen born and raised. I need a social security replacement card to get hired. Do I actually need birth certificate to get a replacement because I need to replace that as well. Can’t I just show my driver’s license?
R.F.
Hi William, your valid U.S. driver’s license should be sufficient to apply for a replacement Social Security card. We prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity to replace your card. Any documents you submit, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age). To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Lisa
I am in NY and need to get a replacement card by mail. I have the birth certificate. But I need to send my actual current drivers license too? I can’t drive around with no photo ID.
R.F.
Please do not send us your driver’s license Lisa. Even though we prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity to replace your Social Security card we may be able to use other documents such as:
•Employee identification card;
•School identification card;
•Health insurance card; or
•U.S. military identification card.
Generally, we only use a birth certificate as proof of citizenship, when we establish your Social Security number. For a replacement card, any documents you submit, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age). Also, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. To learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. Please be sure to mail in the application and supporting documents to the local office or card center in your area. We hope this helps!
Nicolle M.
Hello, I lost my social security card (but I know my number) and am aware of the replacement process. However can I still get a replacement as I lost my birth certificate along with the social security?
R.F.
Hi Nicolle. We use a birth certificate as proof of age and citizenship. To replace your Social Security card, we prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity . If you do not have one or you cannot get one within a reasonable amount of time, we may be able to use other documents such as:
•Employee identification card;
•School identification card;
•Health insurance card; or
•U.S. military identification card.
Any documents you submit, must be an original or certified copy, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age).
Also, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card Please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Ariel
I’m in a terrible situation. When I took my passport and SSN Card to get a new state id they were both stolen, before doing so. Now I have no photo id, SSN card, or passport. I have my birth certificate but all the agencies say it isn’t enough. What can I do I need an SSN card toget an id and vice versa. How do I go about this?
R.F.
Hi Ariel, we prefer a government issued document with your picture, as proof of identity to replace your Social Security card. If you do not have one or you cannot get one within a reasonable amount of time, we may be able to use other documents such as:
•Employee identification card;
•School identification card;
•Health insurance card; or
•U.S. military identification card.
Any documents you submit, must be an originals or certified copies, current (not expired) and show your name, and other identifying information (date of birth or age).
Also, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!
Kristi B.
Hello, I was wondering if I could get my ss card at the vital records in Maryland even if I was born in Georgia
A.C.
Hi, Kristi. First, realize that you may not need a replacement card. You will rarely need to show it. Knowing your Social Security number is what is important. You can visit your local Social Security office or card center to obtain a new or replacement card. To see if you’re eligible to apply for a replacement Social Security card online or to learn more on the process and what documents you will need to get a card, please visit our “New or Replacement Social Security Number and Card” web page. We hope this helps!