You can replace a lost or stolen Social Security card up to three times in a year and up to 10 times during your lifetime. Getting a new card because of a change in your legal name or citizenship status does not count toward the limits. Show
You can request a placement card online, by mail or in person at a local Social Security office. Replacing your Social Security card onlineTo request a replacement card online, you must have a My Social Security account and meet these requirements:
Replacing your card by mail or in personIf you don’t have an online account or don’t meet any one of the other criteria listed above, you’ll have to fill out an application form and either mail it or take it to your local Social Security office. Local offices fully reopened April 7 after being closed to walk-in traffic for more than two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the Social Security Administration (SSA) recommends calling in advance and scheduling an appointment to avoid long waits. You’ll need to provide what the SSA calls "primary" proof of identity — either a passport, a driver’s license or a state-issued photo ID card. If you don’t have any of those, Social Security will ask to see a current, “secondary” ID that shows your name; identifying information such as age or date of birth; and, preferably, a recent photograph — for example, an employee, student or U.S. military ID or a health insurance card (but not a Medicare card). Social Security typically requires the original of your primary ID document, or a copy certified by the agency that issued it. Photocopies, even if notarized, are not accepted. However, the SSA advises against mailing “original primary documents that should be kept secure in your possession.” As an alternative, you may send secondary evidence of identity, or contact your local office about dropping off your evidence or making an appointment. Social Security will return any documents you do submit once they process your new card. Your new Social Security card should arrive in the mail in 10 to 14 days. There is no charge. Keep in mindTo change the
name on your Social Security card, you will need to provide proof of your new name — for example, a marriage certificate, adoption papers or a court order granting the change — and proof of identity and citizenship. These must be originals or certified copies. If you don’t have any of those documents, Social Security may accept an unexpired, state-issued identity document in your new name, provided they can match it to your old name in their records. In this article:
If your Social Security card is lost or stolen, you can replace it for free through the Social Security Administration (SSA) website, by visiting a local SSA office or through the mail. If you don't need a card right away and you know your number, you may not want to go to the trouble, because you are not required to have an actual Social Security card. You are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during your lifetime, but there are some exceptions. For example, if you have a legal name change, this does not count toward the limit; neither do changes in immigration status that require card updates. What Is the Process of Getting a New Social Security Card?Getting a replacement Social Security card involves just three steps: Step 1: Gather DocumentationYou'll need to gather some important original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency (photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted by the Social Security Administration). The paperwork needed is used to prove the following:
All of the documents must be up to date, as the SSA will not accept expired documents or receipts showing that you have applied for these documents. Step 2: Apply OnlineFill out the Social Security card application using the documents above or create a SSA account to fill out the application online. Step 3: Visit the Local SSA OfficePrint out and bring your application and the original documents to your local SSA office. If you filled out the application online, the site will direct you to a page where you can find the closest SSA office in your area. You can also submit your application using an online form, provided you meet certain criteria outlined below. Getting a Replacement Social Security Card Online: Extra RequirementsYes, you can request a replacement Social Security card online if you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address. You must also have a driver's license or a state-issued identification card from one of these
states. If you meet those requirements, you can set up an account on the SSA site to request a replacement card. Can I Replace My Social Security Card the Same Day?The fastest way to replace your Social Security card is to request a new one online. You can also visit
a local SSA office in your area. According to the SSA website, it typically takes 10 to 14 business days to receive your new card once your application has been processed. What if I Can't Apply for a Card Online?If you can't apply for a Social Security card online, then you will need to show the required documents in person at your local SSA office. The documents needed will depend on your current citizenship status and your age. Different documents are needed if you are an adult and a U.S.-born citizen, a foreign-born U.S. citizen, or a noncitizen. Also, if you are replacing a Social Security card for a child, you'll want to check the SSA
website to determine which documents you will need. What if My Social Security Card Was Stolen?If you're replacing your Social Security card because it's been stolen, there are several precautions you should take immediately to reduce your risk of identity theft. Your Social Security number is a very important piece of personally identifiable information that can be used to open new credit accounts in your name, among other things, if it falls into the wrong hands.
Protect Yourself Going ForwardOnce you've followed all the steps to get your replacement Social Security card, it's wise to take action to protect yourself. You may have received a new physical card, but your Social Security number will remain unchanged, and anyone who comes into possession of your old card can use it to commit fraud. This may mean staying diligent about what's on your credit report for years to come. The good news is there's a lot you can do to prevent your Social Security card from being used nefariously. In addition to taking steps to protect your identity, make sure your new card is stored
safely and securely and only leaves your home or safety deposit box when absolutely necessary. Losing possession of your Social Security card can be a nerve-wracking experience, but you've got tools at your disposal to make sure it's replaced quickly and your identity is protected for years to come. How much is a Social Security card in Alabama?It's free to get a Social Security card.
What happens if you lose your Social Security card?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.
Can I get a replacement Social Security card at my local office?Once you complete your application (online or in-person), we will mail the card after we process the application. Please understand that we don't issue cards at our offices. If you need to visit an office, we encourage you to first check the office's status at our Office Closings and Emergencies page.
How can I get a copy of my Social Security ASAP?Can I Replace My Social Security Card the Same Day? The fastest way to replace your Social Security card is to request a new one online. You can also visit a local SSA office in your area.
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