How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Social Security Card

Losing a Social Security card is worrying, but it does not always require immediate replacement. Knowing the number is enough for many transactions, and the Social Security Administration (SSA) advises carrying the card only when necessary. If an employer, agency or institution must see it, you can request a replacement without paying a middleman.

A lost card does not mean a new number

A replacement keeps the same Social Security number. SSA considers issuing a different number only in limited situations, and changing it does not erase the history linked to the old number.

1. Confirm that you need the physical card

Ask the organization what proof it needs and whether it accepts another document. Memorizing your number and storing the card securely reduces the chance of loss. Do not carry it in your wallet every day.

2. Start at SSA's official page

Go directly to SSA.gov: Replace card. The site identifies the best route for your circumstances. Depending on your state, citizenship, age and requested change, you may complete the process through a secure my Social Security account or start online and finish at an office. If the online option is unavailable, follow SSA's instructions for applying by mail or in person.

Do not pay a private website to “process” the card. SSA does not charge for the application. Confirm that the web address ends in .gov before entering personal information.

3. Gather the right evidence

For a replacement card, the current Form SS-5 instructions generally require one document proving identity. SSA asks for current evidence showing your name and identifying information, preferably with a recent photograph. Primary examples include:

a U.S. driver's license;
a state-issued non-driver identification card;
a U.S. passport.

If you do not have one, SSA may consider other evidence such as an employee, school or military ID or a health insurance card other than Medicare. The exact document depends on your case. If you were born outside the United States, SSA may also require proof of U.S. citizenship or current lawful, work-authorized immigration status.

Ordinary photocopies are not accepted

SSA accepts original documents or copies certified by the agency that maintains the record. Notarized copies and uncertified photocopies are not accepted. SSA returns documents submitted with the application.

4. Do not confuse replacement with a name change

If your legal name changed, do not simply choose “lost card.” You must update the record and provide evidence of the change plus identity. A name-change document should connect the old and new names. If the event occurred more than two years ago or the document lacks enough identifying information, SSA may request additional evidence.

5. Know the replacement limits

Federal law limits replacement cards to three per calendar year and ten in a lifetime. Cards issued for a legal name change or a change in the work-authorization legend do not count toward those limits. SSA may also grant an exception when evidence from an official source establishes that a card is required.

6. If it was stolen, protect the number as well as replacing the card

Replacing the card does not block fraudulent use of the number. If you believe someone is using it, visit the Federal Trade Commission's IdentityTheft.gov to create a recovery plan. Review your credit reports, consider freezing them and keep police reports, letters and case numbers.

Our guide How to Check, Freeze and Protect Your Credit for Free explains how to review all three bureaus and block new fraudulent applications.

7. Avoid common scams

SSA does not demand gift cards, cryptocurrency or cash to replace a card.
Do not use phone numbers in threatening messages; go to SSA.gov or call the official number.
Do not send your full number through ordinary email or messaging.
Do not post card photos or leave unprotected images on your phone.

Quick checklist

Confirm that you need the physical card.
Open SSA.gov and use the official selector.
Check that your name and mailing address are correct.
Prepare the proper original or certified document.
If theft occurred, also create a plan at IdentityTheft.gov.
Store the new card at home instead of carrying it daily.

Official sources

This guide provides general information. SSA determines which documents and application method apply to each request.