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How to Get a New Social Security Card
Date Updated: July 26, 2024
Written by:
Rachel Lustbader is a writer and editor with a background in healthcare and technology. Her work has been published on websites including HealthCare.com, BiteSizeBio.com, BetterHelp.com, Caring.com, and PayingforSeniorCare.com. She studied health science and public health at Boston University.
Both of Rachel’s grandmothers had very positive experiences in senior living communities, and Rachel saw firsthand the impact that kind, committed caregivers and community managers can have on seniors’ and their family members’ lives. With her work at Caring, Rachel hopes to help other families find communities, caregivers, and at-home products that benefit elderly loved ones and make life less stressful for family caregivers
You should contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to get a new or replacement Social Security card or to change incorrect details. Social Security cards are typically issued automatically at birth, but you may need to change your name or replace a lost or stolen card. There’s no charge for a replacement or amended card.
Processes may differ depending on your state of residence, but you can connect with your local SSA office to find out the exact procedure for where you live. Most states accept convenient online applications, or you can visit your area’s SSA office to apply in person. You can also call the toll-free nationwide hotline for assistance at 800-772-1213, or 800-325-0778 if you’re deaf or have hearing difficulties.How to apply online
You can create my Social Security account for convenient online management of your benefits. This secure, personalized account lets you order a replacement Social Security card in most states, as well as update your personal information, check benefit claims, print benefit verification documents and estimate what benefits you’ll qualify for in the future. In some states, you can also change or correct your name through the online system.
How to apply in person
In certain states — Alaska, Oklahoma and New Hampshire — and U.S. territories, you must apply for a new Social Security card in person. In other states, you may choose to visit your local SSA office to complete an in-person application. Complete form SS-5 and gather all necessary supporting documents ahead of your visit.
Additionally, check if your nearest SSA office accepts walk-in visits or whether you need to make an appointment. Your new Social Security card won’t be issued at the appointment; instead, it will be sent to you by mail.
Required documents for a new Social Security card
You’ll need to provide several documents, whether you apply online or in person, for a new, replacement or amended SS card.
If you are a U.S.-born citizen and were never given a Social Security card at birth, you’ll need to provide original documents or certified copies that show:
- Your citizenship status (such as a passport or birth certificate)
- Your age (usually your birth certificate, though you may be allowed to use other documents if you don’t have your birth certificate)
- Your identity (such as a passport, driver’s license or state-issued ID card)
Additionally, people over 12 applying for a new SS card must attend an interview.
The required documents for a replacement card are:
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of identity
To change your name on your SS card, you’ll need to provide:
- Proof of citizenship
- Proof of identity
- Proof of name change (such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or court order)