I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.
See all posts Frank GogolHow Long Does it Take to Get a Replacement Social Security Card?
Updated on April 10, 2024
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At a Glance
- To replace your Social Security card, gather required documents including proof of citizenship, age, and identity.
- Complete the online Social Security Association form or visit a local SSA office to submit your application.
- Some states and U.S. territories may not allow online applications.
- Replacement cards typically arrive in 10 to 14 business days.
Generally, after your request for a replacement Social Security Card is processed, you will receive your new Social Security Card within 2 weeks.
If you have a more urgent case and want your card delivered faster, you can ask the Social Security Administration for a printout on its letterhead that verifies your number.
How to Replace Your Social Security Card
It’s a simple, three-step process to replace your SS Card:
- Gather the required documents
- Complete the online Social Security Association Form
- Pick up your new SS card at the local SSA office
Documents Required to Replace Social Security Card
Before you replace your Social Security Card, you will need to gather the necessary documents, including:
- Proof of your U.S. citizenship
- Proof of your age
- Proof your identity
Complete the SSA Online Form
Fill out the Social Security card application using the documents above or create a SSA account to fill out the application online.
Pick Up Your New Social Security Card at the Local SSA Office
Print 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.
States that Prohibit Online Social Security Card Applications
Some states do not allow you to apply online. As such, you will not be eligible for online application if you are from:
- Alabama
- Nevada
- Oklahoma
- Minnesota
- West Virginia
- New Hampshire
- Oregon
- Ohio
Other Reactions from Online Applications
Furthermore, you will not be allowed to apply online if you got your identification card or driver’s license from a U.S. territory. These include Guam, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands or the Northern Mariana Islands.
As long as you are not requesting a change of your name to your card, and if you are 18 with a U.S. mailing address and have an I.D. card or driver’s license issued from one of the many states or the District of Columbia, you can apply online.
Replacements Aren’t Always Needed
Also, you should be aware of the fact that it’s not always that you need a card replacement. If you know your number, that may be enough for you in some cases. However, if you find yourself in a situation where a card is necessary, then you need a replacement, and applying online is very easy.
If you are one of the people who cannot apply online, you should go to a Social Security office instead. If you visit socialsecurity.gov, you can find the available locations. Luckily, there are over 1,300 offices for this purpose. If the office is too far away from you, it’s also possible to download the application and mail it. However, this is a little risky, because it is possible to get your identity stolen.
Read More
- How to Get a Temporary Social Security Card
- How Do I Speak to a Live Person at USCIS?
- How Many Citizenships Can You Have?
- How Do I Know Which USCIS Service Center?
- How Do I Know If USCIS Received My Application?
- What “Country of Residence” and How to Know Yours When on a Visa
- How to Check Dropbox Eligibility with the App
Social Security Card Replacement FAQ
How Long Does It Take for Social Security to Send You a New Card?
It typically takes the Social Security Administration 10 to 14 business days to send you a new card once it has the required information.
How Can I Get a Replacement Social Security Card Fast?
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.
Can I get a Social Security Card the Same Day?
Typially you can’t get a Social Security card the same day. It most often takes 10 to 14 business days once the Social Security Administration has the necessary information. Using the SS-5 form provided by the SSA, you can fill out your application at home and bring it into the office. This can save a bit of time if your nearest social security office location is busy.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Social Security Card?
How do I apply for a new or replacement Social Security number card? You can get an original Social Security card or a replacement card if yours is lost or stolen. There is no charge for a Social Security card.
What is the Fastest You Can Get a New Social Security Card?
The fastest you can expect to receive your new Social Security card is 7 business days, but it typically takes 10 to 14 business days.
How Do I Know If My Social Security Card Has Been Mailed?
You can call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to find out if your Social Security card has been mailed yet. The office is open on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you are deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can dial 1-800-325-0778.
Frank Gogol
I’m a firm believer that information is the key to financial freedom. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics — like finance, immigration, and technology — to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more.