How to Replace a Lost Social Security Card

An employer or a bank has asked for the card, it is not where it should be, and the search results are full of sites offering to handle the paperwork for a fee. The replacement costs nothing and the request starts on the agency's own site. The other surprise is that the card may not be needed at all.

Start at the SSA's own replacement page

The SSA's page on replacing a Social Security card describes the replacement as free, and the SSA FAQ on applying for a replacement card online states that there is no charge for one. The Social Security number and card hub covers the same task, and neither page routes the request through another company.

Check whether a card is needed at all

The SSA replacement page says a physical card is not necessary in most cases and that knowing the number is usually enough. The SSA's online card application adds that most organizations can verify a number without seeing the card, and states a limit of three replacement cards per year and ten in a lifetime, with some exceptions. The replacement page also says a local office cannot print one on the spot and that cards arrive by mail in 5 to 10 business days.

Request the replacement through a my Social Security account

The SSA FAQ says that in most states a personal my Social Security account can be used to request a replacement card, and that anyone who cannot do that can still begin the application online and self-schedule an appointment. The online application page says the agency then either completes the request or helps schedule a visit to a local office or Card Center with documents within 45 days.

Use Form SS-5 when the online route is closed

The SSA FAQ says anyone who does not begin online completes the paper Application for a Social Security Card, Form SS-5 and brings the required documents to a local office or Card Center, and it suggests printing the completed form beforehand.

Bring originals rather than photocopies

The SSA's page on documents needed for a Social Security card states that documents must be original or copies certified by the agency that issued them, that photocopies and notarized copies are not accepted, and that documents cannot be expired. For identity it lists a US driver's license, a state-issued non-driver identification card, or a US passport, and it notes that at least two separate documents are required even when one document serves two purposes.

Find the nearest office with the locator

The SSA's field office locator searches by address, city, state, or ZIP code. Its page notes that some locations are Card Centers covering new or replacement cards, and that others do not handle replacements at all.

If the card is for a child. The SSA documents page says the agency asks for proof of the child's identity and of the identity of the adult filing, and that it may ask for documents showing custody or responsibility, such as court custody papers, school records, or a rental agreement listing the child.

Sources. SSA, replace Social Security card, SSA FAQ, replacement card online, SSA online card application, Form SS-5, SSA, documents needed, SSA field office locator, my Social Security.