It can be frustrating searching for your Social Security card, coming up empty and realizing you need to get a new one. However, getting a card replacement can be fairly straightforward. But you need to have the right documentation for the agency to issue you a new one.
Here are four things you need to know about getting a Social Security card replacement.
Applying for a card replacement online through your my Social Security account is usually the most convenient option. But you can only use the online application if you don’t need to make any changes, such as updating your name. You also have to be an adult with a driver’s license or a non-driver ID card and live in one of the states that verify state-issued documents for the Social Security Administration.
Generally your card will arrive within two weeks if you apply online. The online application can be found here.
To apply for a new card through the mail, you will need to mail an application along with proof of your identity, such as a non-driver ID, driver’s license or passport, to the Social Security Administration. These forms of ID are considered to be “primary” evidence of your identity.
For the documentation to work, it must be current, show your name and birth date or age, and be an original or certified copy. Social Security will return any documents you send them. It could take two to four weeks for your application to be processed and your documents returned.
To change your name on a Social Security card, you must submit proof of your identity — this can be either a primary or secondary document described above — and documentation showing your name change. This can include a marriage certificate, a court order approving the name change, a divorce decree or a Certificate of Naturalization.
You may be able to get away with sending the Social Security Administration just one document if it shows your previous name and your age, birth date or your parents’ names. This information then must match your Social Security records.
Again, any documents you mail to the Social Security Administration will be sent back to you.
Fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) and bring it to your local office along with unexpired identification. Documents must be original or have a signature, stamp, or raised seal from the issuing agency. The Social Security Administration doesn't accept photocopies.
You can find the Social Security location nearest to you here. You will generally get your Social Security card replacement in about two weeks with an in-person visit. Some large cities have dedicated Social Security Card Centers where you can apply for a new card.
You can also speak with someone over the phone if you have a question about getting a replacement card. The office locator provides the phone number for each office. Otherwise, you can call the national phone number at 1-800-772-1213.
