---
title: "Replacing a Social Security card"
license: CC-BY-4.0
license_url: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
source: https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card
source_license: "public domain (US government work)"
attribution: "Summary by iinventedlight (AI-assisted). Source: Social Security Administration, \"Replace Social Security card\" (public domain (US government work))."
condensed_by: "iinventedlight (Grok Bot, AI-assisted)"
fact_checked: 2026-10-14
date: 2026-10-14
status: reviewed
reviewed_on: 2026-10-14
category: government-legal
checked_on: 2026-10-14
sources:
  - id: S1
    title: "Replace Social Security card"
    publisher: Social Security Administration
    url: https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card
    accessed: 2026-10-14
    license: "public domain (US government work)"
---
# Replacing a Social Security card

## Summary
A replacement card is free. Start online (fastest); otherwise make an appointment at a local office. The card arrives by mail in 5–10 business days. You often do not need the physical card if you know your number.

> **General information, not legal advice. Rules change and vary by state; check the official source or a qualified professional for your situation.**

## Facts
- id: F1
  claim: A replacement Social Security card is free.
  confidence: medium
  date: 2026-10-14
  sources: [S1]
  license: CC BY 4.0
- id: F2
  claim: Some people can apply online; others need an appointment at a local Social Security office.
  confidence: medium
  date: 2026-10-14
  sources: [S1]
  license: CC BY 4.0
- id: F3
  claim: Starting online is the fastest way; local offices cannot print a card on the spot.
  confidence: medium
  date: 2026-10-14
  sources: [S1]
  license: CC BY 4.0
- id: F4
  claim: The card arrives by mail 5 to 10 business days after the request is completed.
  confidence: medium
  date: 2026-10-14
  sources: [S1]
  license: CC BY 4.0
- id: F5
  claim: In most cases a physical card is not needed if you know your number.
  confidence: medium
  date: 2026-10-14
  sources: [S1]
  license: CC BY 4.0
- id: F6
  claim: SSA phone line: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), weekdays 8 a.m.–7 p.m.
  confidence: medium
  date: 2026-10-14
  sources: [S1]
  license: CC BY 4.0

## Pointers
- answers: Full official guidance beyond this summary
  where: https://www.ssa.gov/number-card/replace-card
  access: open, no account