Get Or Replace A Social Security Card

Why do I need one?

You need a Social Security number to get a job, collect Social Security benefits and receive some other government services. But you don't often need to show your Social Security card. Do not carry your card with you. Keep it in a safe place with your other important papers.

How to Get a New or Replacement Card

Step 1

LEARN
what documents
you need

Step 2

FILL OUT
AND PRINT
an application
(Form SS-5)

Step 3

TAKE OR MAIL
your application and documents to
Social Security

Important

All documents submitted must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.

Get a certified copy of a document showing a birth, marriage or divorce that took place in the U.S.

NOTE

If you are filing an application on behalf of someone else, you also must show us evidence of your relationship to, or responsibility for, the person for whom you are filing. You must also show us proof of your identity.

Last reviewed or modified 12/13/2011

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Disclaimer

The Social Security Administration (SSA) website contains links to websites not affiliated with the United States government. These may include State and Local governmental agencies, international agencies, and private entities.

SSA cannot attest to the accuracy of information provided by such websites. If we provide a link to such a website, this does not constitute an endorsement by SSA or any of its employees of the information or products presented on the non-SSA website.

Also, such websites are not within our control and may not follow the same privacy, security or accessibility policies. Once you visit such a website, you are subject to the policies of that site.