To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you must provide documents proving your identity and U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status. Primary documents include a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or a Permanent Resident Card. Social Security Administration may also require secondary evidence such as a driver's license, state-issued ID card, or school identification.
What Documents Are Required to Apply for a Social Security Card Replacement?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | REAL ID-compliant documentation | Applicants seeking a Social Security card replacement must provide REAL ID-compliant documentation, such as a valid U.S. passport, state-issued driver's license, or state ID card that meets the REAL ID Act requirements. Proof of citizenship or lawful immigration status, along with a birth certificate or permanent resident card, is also necessary to verify identity and eligibility. |
| 2 | Digital identity verification certificate | To apply for a Social Security card replacement using digital identity verification, applicants must provide a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver's license or passport and a digital identity verification certificate issued by an authorized provider. This certificate confirms the applicant's identity securely, streamlining the replacement process without needing to submit physical documents. |
| 3 | Enhanced Driver’s License (EDL) | To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you must provide identity proof such as an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL), which contains additional security features that verify U.S. citizenship and residency. The EDL serves as an acceptable primary document alongside other acceptable documents like a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport. |
| 4 | SSA-89 electronic consent form | To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you must provide proof of identity and complete the SSA-89 electronic consent form, which authorizes the Social Security Administration to verify your financial information electronically. This form streamlines the verification process, ensuring accurate and efficient processing of your application. |
| 5 | E-signature validated documents | To apply for a Social Security card replacement with E-signature validated documents, you must provide proof of identity such as a U.S. driver's license or U.S. passport with a valid E-signature. Additionally, certified E-signature-enabled documents like a state-issued identification card or military ID can be submitted to meet the Social Security Administration's requirements. |
| 6 | Mobile ID credential | To apply for a Social Security card replacement using a Mobile ID credential, applicants must provide a valid, government-issued photo ID accessible via their mobile device and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status. The Mobile ID credential, compliant with state digital ID standards, streamlines identity verification by securely linking personal information to the Social Security Administration's records. |
| 7 | Biometric authentication proof | To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you must provide proof of identity through biometric authentication documents such as a valid U.S. passport, state-issued driver's license, or government employee ID containing a photograph and biometric data. These secure identity documents ensure the accuracy and protection of your personal information during the Social Security card replacement process. |
| 8 | Online Social Security Account (mySSA) record | To apply for a Social Security card replacement online through your mySSA account, you must provide documents that prove your identity, such as a U.S. driver's license, state-issued non-driver identification card, or U.S. passport. The Social Security Administration requires these original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency to verify your identity and access your record securely. |
| 9 | Remote notarization certificate | To apply for a Social Security card replacement, a remote notarization certificate may be required to verify identity documents submitted electronically, ensuring authenticity in the absence of in-person notarization. This certificate serves as a legal validation tool for documents such as proof of citizenship, identity, or immigration status during remote application processes. |
| 10 | Blockchain-verifiable birth record | To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you must provide proof of identity and age, such as a blockchain-verifiable birth record that ensures secure, tamper-proof authentication of your birth data. This certified digital document streamlines the verification process by offering immutable proof of birth details recognized by Social Security Administration standards. |
Introduction to Social Security Card Replacement
A Social Security card is essential for various identification and employment purposes. When a card is lost or stolen, applying for a replacement is a straightforward process.
To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you need to provide specific documents proving your identity and citizenship or immigration status. Typically, acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, driver's license, or state-issued ID. Original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency are required to ensure authenticity.
Reasons for Replacing a Social Security Card
To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you must provide documents proving your identity, such as a U.S. driver's license, passport, or state-issued identification card. If you are not a U.S. citizen, additional documents like immigration status verification might be required.
Reasons for replacing a Social Security card include loss, theft, damage, or a legal name change. You must present valid documentation supporting your reason to ensure your card is accurately reissued.
Overview of the Application Process
To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you must submit specific documents that prove your identity and citizenship or immigration status. The Social Security Administration requires original or certified copies of these documents for validation.
The application process begins by completing Form SS-5 either online or at a local Social Security office. Along with the form, you must present valid identification such as a U.S. driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID card to verify your identity.
Primary Documents Needed for Identity Verification
To apply for a Social Security card replacement, you must provide primary documents that verify your identity. Acceptable documents include a U.S. driver's license, a valid U.S. passport, or a state-issued identification card. These documents must be current and contain your legal name and date of birth for successful verification.
Acceptable Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Status
To apply for a Social Security card replacement, acceptable proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status must be submitted. Valid documents include a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or an unexpired immigration document such as Form I-551 or I-94. Your application will be processed only when the original or certified copies of these documents are provided.
Documents Required for Name Change on Social Security Card
| Document Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Valid U.S. driver's license, U.S. passport, or state-issued identification card | Confirms applicant's identity for Social Security card replacement |
| Proof of Name Change | Legal name change document such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order | Verifies the official name change to update Social Security records |
| Proof of Citizenship | U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport | Establishes applicant's U.S. citizenship for Social Security card issuance |
| Application Form | Completed Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card | Formal request for Social Security card replacement with updated name |
Guidelines for Minors and Third-Party Applicants
Applying for a Social Security card replacement requires specific documents, especially for minors and third-party applicants. Proper identification and proof of relationship are essential to complete the process smoothly.
- Proof of Age and Identity for Minors - A birth certificate or passport is required to verify the minor's age and identity.
- Parental or Guardian Identification - The parent or guardian must present valid identification, such as a driver's license or state ID.
- Proof of Relationship - Documentation demonstrating the legal relationship between the minor and the applicant, such as a birth certificate listing the parent's name, is necessary.
You must ensure all documents are original or certified copies to meet Social Security Administration requirements.
How to Submit Your Social Security Card Application
When applying for a Social Security card replacement, it is essential to provide specific documents that prove your identity and eligibility. The application process requires careful submission of these documents to ensure swift processing.
- Proof of Identity - Submit a valid government-issued photo ID such as a passport or driver's license.
- Application Form - Complete and sign the SSA Form SS-5, available online or at local Social Security offices.
- Submission Methods - Mail your application and documents to the nearest Social Security office or submit them in person for faster service.
Processing Times and Receiving Your New Card
Applying for a Social Security card replacement requires specific documents to verify identity and citizenship or lawful immigration status. Processing times vary, and understanding what documents to provide can speed up receiving your new card.
- Proof of Identity - Valid identification documents like a U.S. driver's license, state-issued ID card, or U.S. passport are necessary to confirm your identity.
- Proof of Citizenship or Immigration Status - U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration documents such as Form I-551 are required to establish your legal status.
- Processing Times - Once your application and documents are submitted, it usually takes 10 to 14 business days to receive your replacement Social Security card by mail.
What Documents Are Required to Apply for a Social Security Card Replacement? Infographic
