A replacement card is free, and you may not need one at all, because knowing the number is what matters most. Adults age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address and a my Social Security account can often apply online. Limits are three cards a year and ten in a lifetime.
What happened
Your Social Security card is gone. It was lost, or it went with a stolen wallet. Something may be coming up that you think needs it, like a new job. The first question is whether you need the card at all.
What usually applies
Social Security replaces a lost or stolen card for free. Often you do not need a new card. Employers and offices usually need the number, not the paper. If you do need the card, the online route is the fastest. It is open to adults age 18 or older who have a U.S. mailing address and a my Social Security account. Everyone else goes to an office with proof of identity. There are limits. Three replacement cards in a year, and ten in a lifetime. Legal name changes and some other reasons do not count against those limits. Someone who can show the card is needed to prevent a real hardship may not be held to them either. A name change is a separate request. It needs proof of the legal change, like a marriage record or a court order. If the card was stolen, watch your accounts for identity theft.
“You can replace your Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. However, you may not need to get a replacement card if you know your Social Security number (SSN). You are limited to three (3) replacement cards in a year and ten (10) during your lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward these limits. Also, you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.”
“If you are age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address and have a my Social Security account, you can apply for a replacement card online.”
“If you need to change your name on your Social Security card, you must show us proof of your legal name change.”
“Report a stolen Social Security number to the Federal Trade Commission if you think you're a victim of identity theft.”
What to do
- 1
Ask whether you need the card
Most jobs and offices need the number, not the paper. Knowing the number is often enough.
- 2
Try the online request first
It is open to adults with a U.S. mailing address and a my Social Security account. It costs nothing.
- 3
Bring proof if you go in person
An office asks for proof of who you are. A current, unexpired photo document works best.
- 4
Handle a name change on its own
A new name needs proof of the legal change, such as a marriage record or a court order.
- 5
Watch for identity theft if it was stolen
Report a stolen number at IdentityTheft.gov. Then check your bank and card accounts.
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 if the online request will not go through, or if the office asks for a document you do not have. Legal aid offices help when a missing card is blocking a job, a lease, or a benefit. If someone is using your number, the Federal Trade Commission takes that report. Your local 211 line can find free help near you.
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Sources
- Social Security Administration, Social Security Number and Card, documents you need (ssa.gov)Retrieved 2026-07-31
- Social Security Administration, Social Security number and card (ssa.gov)Retrieved 2026-07-31
Last reviewed 2026-07-31