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.
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Tags: Social Security benefits, Social Security card, SSN
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Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
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Gabriel D.
I was burglarized on 05/14/18 around 2 pm
Terry F.
If someone finds my lost social security card, do I need to worry about my identity being stolen? Do I need a new number, or just a new card? Thanks.
R.F.
Hello Terry, please visit our Frequently Asked Questions web page for information on this topic. Thanks!
CAROL M.
HOW CAN I CHANGE BANK ACCOUNTS FOR MY MONTHLY SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFIT
Michele C.
my son lost his SS card and we do not his ss number please advise what we need to do to get a new card thank you
Mildred D.
I am trying to find a way to replace my lost ss card
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Eleanor B.
I already mailed the request for the social security card replacement due to the lost one almost 2 weeks ago. I have not heard anything from there, yet. Your advice would be appreciated. Thank you!
R.F.
Hello Eleanor. Typically, after we receive your application and verify your (original) documents, you should receive your replacement Social Security card by mail within 10 business days, after we process your request. Any documents you provided, will -also- be returned to you by mail.
To follow up on your application for a Social Security replacement card, you may have to contact the office or Card Center where you send your application.
Also, you can call our toll free number at 1-800-772-1213 and speak to someone about the status of your card. Representatives are available Monday through Friday, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. We hope this information helps!
Randy B.
Lost Social Security card and I need to fill out another but I forgot the social security number
Jason H.
Is there a immediate temporary card or paper that can be issued while I wait for the mailed card?
Wei Z.
My social security card with my husband and two children was lost. We need to re-submit the social security card. Thanks!