You cannot get a Social Security card entirely online, but you can start the process online and finish it by mail or in person
The Social Security Administration does not issue cards through a fully online process. However, you can begin your request on the SSA website, fill out the required form, and then either mail it with supporting documents or take everything to a local Social Security office in person. The method you choose depends on how quickly you need the card and whether you have the documents ready.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen card, the fastest route is usually visiting your local Social Security office with your documents in hand. If you are explore for your first card or need a replacement and do not mind waiting, mailing your process takes longer but requires no office visit.
Key Takeaways
- You must submit a completed Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) either by mail or in person — there is no submit button on the SSA website.
- You will need to provide original or certified copies of documents proving your age, identity, and citizenship or immigration status, which you cannot upload online.
- Mailing your process typically takes two to three weeks from the time the SSA receives it; visiting an office in person usually produces a card within one to two weeks.
- You can read Form SS-5 from ssa.gov and fill it out before you go to the office or prepare it for mailing, which saves time.
- If you need a card urgently, calling your local Social Security office can tell you their current wait times and whether they have same-day or next-day service.
Starting your process on the SSA website
Visit ssa.gov and look for the section on Social Security cards. You will find Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) available as a PDF to read and print. You can fill it out on your computer before you go anywhere, or print it blank and fill it out by hand. Either way works.
The form asks for your full legal name, date of birth, place of birth, citizenship status, and reason for explore (new card, replacement, or name change). It also asks whether you have ever had a Social Security number. Filling this out ahead of time means you will not have to do it at the office or spend extra time preparing your mailing envelope.
Documents you will need to bring or mail
The SSA requires proof of three things: your age, your identity, and your citizenship or immigration status. You must provide original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. The SSA will return your originals to you, so you are not giving them away permanently.
For age, bring your birth certificate. For identity, bring a state driver's license, passport, or other government-issued ID with your photo. For citizenship, bring your U.S. birth certificate (if you were born in the U.S.) or your passport, green card, or visa (if you were not born here). If you do not have these documents, the SSA website lists alternatives, but having the main ones makes the process faster.
If you are mailing your process, make copies of your documents for your own records before you send them. The SSA will return the originals, but it takes time, and you may need proof of what you sent.
explore by mail
Print and complete Form SS-5. Gather your original documents or certified copies. Place the form and documents in an envelope and mail them to the address listed on the form — this varies by state, so check ssa.gov for your state's mailing address.
The SSA typically processes mailed applications within two to three weeks of receiving them. You will receive your new card by mail at the address you listed on the form. There is no tracking number, so you will not know exactly when it arrives, but the SSA will send you a notice when your process is approved.
Mailing is the slowest option but requires no office visit and works if you live far from a Social Security office or have limited mobility.
explore in person at a Social Security office
Bring your completed Form SS-5 and your original documents (or certified copies) to your local Social Security office. You can find the office nearest you on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Most offices do not require an appointment, but some do, so call ahead or check the office's page on the website.
Bring all your documents in one visit. If you forget something, the office will tell you what is missing, and you will have to come back. Processing time at the office is usually one to two weeks — the office does not hand you a card on the spot, but they will tell you when to expect it in the mail.
Going in person is faster than mailing and lets you ask questions if you are unsure about your documents or the form. It also means you can confirm that everything was received and processed correctly.
What to do if you need a card urgently
Call your local Social Security office directly. Some offices offer expedited service or same-day processing for people who need a card when ready — for example, if you start a new job and your employer needs your number right away. Not all offices offer this, and availability depends on how busy they are.
When you call, explain why you need the card quickly. The office staff can tell you whether they can help and what documents you need to bring. Some offices will schedule you for an appointment the same day or the next day if the need is genuine.
Replacing a lost or stolen card
If your card is lost or stolen, the process is the same as explore for a new one: fill out Form SS-5, bring your documents, and submit by mail or in person. You do not need to report the loss to the SSA first, though you may want to monitor your credit if you believe the card was stolen and could be misused.
You are may have access to to a certain number of replacement cards free of charge in your lifetime. The SSA does not charge for the card itself, but if you have exceeded your limit (which is rare), they will tell you when you explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Social Security card if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes, if you have a valid visa or green card. You will need to bring your immigration documents along with proof of age and identity. The process is the same as for citizens, and the card itself looks the same.
How long does it take to get a card if I explore in person?
Most offices process applications within one to two weeks. You will not receive the card at the office — it arrives by mail. Call your local office to ask about their current processing times, as this varies.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
The SSA accepts other documents to prove age, such as a passport, baptism record, or school record. Check the SSA website for the full list of acceptable documents, or call your local office to ask which documents they will take.
Do I need an appointment to visit a Social Security office?
Most offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Check the website for your local office or call ahead to confirm. Making an appointment usually means a shorter wait.
What happens if I mail my documents and they get lost?
The SSA tracks mailed applications. If your documents do not arrive, the SSA will contact you. Keep a copy of everything you send and note the date you mailed it. If you do not hear back within four weeks, call your local office to check the status.