How to Get a New Social Security Card
Updated October 2026 · 2026 figures from the Social Security Administration and IRS
How you get a new Social Security card depends on why you need it: a newborn gets one when you check the box on the hospital's birth registration form; a lost or worn-out card is replaced online; a name change needs Form SS-5 with proof; and anyone 12 or older applying for a first number must apply in person. All of it is free.
Retirement Rules Guide is an independent site, not the Social Security Administration. We can't process applications or see your record; every official action below happens at ssa.gov, by phone with SSA or at an SSA office.
To see how to get a new Social Security card in your case, find your situation in the table, then follow the matching section below.
Which situation are you in?
| Situation | How to get the card | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Lost, stolen or damaged card (same name) | Request a replacement | Online, or office with Form SS-5 — see Social Security card replacement |
| Name changed (marriage, divorce, court order) | Corrected card with the new name | Start online; documents online or at an office — see name change |
| Newborn baby | First card through birth registration | Hospital, when you register the birth |
| Child or adult who never had a number | Original card | In person (age 12+), Form SS-5 |
| Immigrant arriving with a visa or getting a work permit | Original card via your immigration application | Check the SSN box on Form DS-260 or I-765 |
| Noncitizen whose status changed | Updated card (new legend) | Office, with your new DHS document |
| Need a completely different number | New number (rarely approved) | In person, with evidence |
How to get a new Social Security card for a baby
The easiest way is to say yes to a Social Security number when you fill in the birth registration form at the hospital. The card is mailed to you, typically within a few weeks. If you skipped it, apply later with Form SS-5, the child's birth certificate, a document proving the child's identity (such as a passport or medical record) and your own ID. You can mail the documents or bring them to an office.
First card for someone 12 or older
Anyone 12 or older who has never had a number must apply in person and answer questions to show they never received one. Bring:
- A completed Form SS-5.
- Proof of age: a U.S. birth certificate (or, if unavailable, a passport or religious or hospital record from early childhood).
- Proof of identity: driver's license, state ID or passport.
- Proof of citizenship or lawful status that allows work, or a valid non-work reason for the number.
Documents must be originals or certified copies; SSA returns them.
Immigrants: get your card through your visa or work permit
Most immigrants don't need to visit an office. Checking the Social Security box on the immigrant visa application (Form DS-260) or the work permit application (Form I-765) lets the government send the card automatically after you arrive or your permit is approved. If it doesn't arrive within a few weeks, contact SSA.
Cards for noncitizens can carry a legend: "Valid for work only with DHS authorization" or "Not valid for employment". When you become a permanent resident or citizen, ask SSA to update it; these updates don't count toward the replacement limit.
Can I get a brand-new Social Security number?
Only in limited cases. SSA may assign a new number if you can show ongoing harm from misuse of your number (identity theft with continuing problems), you're a victim of domestic violence or harassment, or two people were issued the same number. You must apply in person with evidence such as police reports or protective orders. A new number doesn't erase your old credit or legal history, and SSA links both numbers internally.
What a new card costs and how long it takes
- Cost: always free. Any site charging a fee is not Social Security.
- Time: replacements arrive in about 5–10 business days after processing (SSA); first cards can take longer if SSA must verify birth records or immigration documents.
- Limit: 3 replacement cards a year and 10 in a lifetime, not counting name changes or status updates (20 CFR 422.103).
Frequently asked questions
How do I get a new Social Security card?
If your card was lost or damaged, request a replacement online at ssa.gov. For a name change, file Form SS-5 with proof. For a first number at 12 or older, apply in person with proof of age, identity and citizenship or status.
How do I get a Social Security card for my newborn?
Ask for a Social Security number when you complete the birth registration form at the hospital. The card is mailed to you. If you missed it, apply later with Form SS-5 and the birth certificate.
Can I get a new Social Security card online?
Most adult U.S. citizens can request a replacement card online. First-time cards for anyone 12 or older and some noncitizen cards require an office visit.
Does a new Social Security card have a new number?
No. Replacement and corrected cards keep the same number. A different number is issued only in rare situations such as ongoing identity theft harm or domestic violence.
What form do I need for a new Social Security card?
Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. It's used for original, replacement and corrected cards, and you can download it free from ssa.gov.