If you’ve lost your Social Security card or had your number stolen, the Social Security Administration (SSA) offers secure, free options for replacement and protection. While most people don’t need to carry their card daily, certain life situations make a replacement necessary.
Do you need a replacement card?
In many cases, knowing your Social Security number is enough. However, you may need the physical card to:
- Start a new job
- Apply for federal or state benefits
- Obtain a license or passport
- Satisfy identity verification for housing, education, or loans
How to replace your Social Security card
1. Replace your card online
You may qualify to apply for a replacement card online if you meet all of the following:
- You are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older
- You have a U.S. mailing address
- You have a driver’s license or ID from a participating state
- You’re not changing your name
To apply, sign into your my Social Security account at SSA.gov and follow the instructions. The SSA will mail your new card within 14 days.
2. Replace your card in person
If you’re not eligible to apply online, visit a local SSA office:
- Schedule an appointment by calling 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778)
- Bring documents proving your identity, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID
- Use the SSA office locator to find your nearest office
The replacement process is free, and you’ll receive your card by mail.
What documents do you need?
To verify your identity, the SSA requires:
- U.S. driver’s license
- U.S. passport
- State-issued ID
Alternate documents may be accepted if you do not have these. All documents must be original and unexpired.
Replacing a child’s card
Parents or guardians may replace a child’s Social Security card. You’ll need:
- The child’s birth certificate or passport
- Your own identification
- Proof of your relationship to the child
What if your Social Security number is stolen?
If you suspect your Social Security number has been stolen or exposed:
- Report it immediately to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov.
- Complete an identity theft report by answering questions about your situation.
- Follow the FTC’s recommended steps, which may include placing fraud alerts, freezing your credit, and reporting to local law enforcement.
The SSA itself does not handle identity theft reports, but taking quick action through the FTC is the first line of defense against fraud.
Can you get a new Social Security number?
In rare cases—such as domestic violence, severe harassment, or confirmed ongoing fraud—you may be eligible to request a new number. This process requires extensive documentation and approval from the SSA.
Protect your number going forward
- Keep your Social Security card in a secure place—do not carry it with you
- Avoid sharing your number unless legally required
- Monitor your credit regularly
- Shred documents containing your SSN
Final thoughts
Replacing your Social Security card is a straightforward process, but it’s important to consider whether it’s truly necessary. If your number has been compromised, act fast to limit the damage. For all replacements and protections, start at the official SSA.gov website.
More resources
- Latest coverage of Social Security benefits on FingerLakes1.com
- Social Security Update: Major Change Coming for Paper Check Recipients
- Social Security Checks of $1,907 Deposit Next Week: Here’s Who Gets Paid
- July Social Security Payment Schedule Confirmed: Key Dates & Major Changes
This content is brought to you by the FingerLakes1.com Team. Support our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/fl1 or learn how you send us your local content here.