General, Online Services, Social Security Number and Card

So You’ve Lost Your Social Security Card

July 25, 2016 • By

Reading Time: 2 Minutes

Last Updated: November 3, 2023

lost ss cardLosing 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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About the Author

Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications

Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications

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Comments

  1. alfredo g.

    I misplaced my SS card. I try to apply on line, but forgot my account number and pass word.
    I can be reach at the following e-mail riveside_1977@yahoo.com

    Please help.
    Respectfully,

    Alfredo Gonzalez Rivera

  2. Dave S.

    Found a social security card, trying to figure out what to do with it. Please help.

  3. Lenita S.

    Change of address
    924 Lander Dr
    Apt 107
    Fort Mill SC. 29708

  4. Jade

    How I am going to obtain a replacement SSC if I lost all my valid I.D’s only original birth certificate left?? What shall I Do?? I need to get a replacement SSC as soon as possible.

  5. maria r.

    My wallet was stolen last night 11/09/18 at a local restaurant long with with license and everything else. this a holiday weekend and I know I can do too much , it Veterans Day…So come Tuesday I will be going down to DMV to replace my License but I’m not sure how to replace my SS # and worry about someone doing fraudulent transactions??? Please let me know. My number is 518.459.9368 home and cell 518.253.9428. Thank you I want to document something now just in case someone does something jeopardize my integrity. today is 11/10/18

  6. Jerry F.

    The webpage is saying I can request a replacement on line now in CA but when I try, the system won’t let me and refers me to a local office? Why?

  7. William J.

    I am age76 and very impressed with progress being made in addressing issues within the Social Security Administration!! Thanks for your leadership!!
    Bill Doré
    Louisiana

  8. Frederick J.

    I lost my S.S./Medicare Health card. I applied on line on 9/6/2018 on form SS-5 (I have a copy of my application) at a cost of $39. You are telling me I should receive a replacement with 10 business days. It is now November 9. That’s now 2 months. Where is my new card.*** – ** – ***, med card number is now SWC4-EM9-QC61.

  9. Karen J.

    This is the best website of any type that I have seen! Congratulations..and thank you! You’re a breath of fresh air……makes me wish I had a problem!

    Thank you!

  10. charles m.

    I can not retrieve my password on the sign in sheet. I put all the correct information and it says to correct the incorrect information .

Comments are closed.