Replacing A Social Security Card for an Adult

 

Step 1: Gather documents proving your Identity, U.S. Citizenship, and/or Immigration Status

 

Step 2: Complete an Application for a Social Security Card  (Click on this link to get a printable application form).

 

Step 3:  Take or mail your completed application and documents to your local Social Security Office or your local Social Security Card Center.

  

IMPORTANT NOTES  : 

• All documents must be either originals or certified copies by the issuing agency.  The Social Security Office will not accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.  Any documents you mail to the Social Security Office will be returned to you along with a receipt.

• Public Law 108-458 limits the number of replacement Social Security cards you may receive to 3 per calendar year and 10 in a lifetime.  Cards issued to reflect changes to your legal name or changes to a work authorization legend do not count toward these limits.  The Social Security Administration may also grant exceptions to these limits if you provided evidence from an official source to establish that a Social Security card is required.

• The Social Security Office will mail your card as soon as we have  verified your documents.  You should receive your card within 10 business days form the date of your receipt.  Your replacement card will have the same number as your previous card.

• You may not need to get a replacement card.  Knowing your Social Security number is what is important.  You need a Social Security number to get a job, collect Social Security benefits and receive some government services but you not often need to show your Social Security card.