Certified Copy Of Social Security Card requests must go directly through the Social Security Administration. No other agency, notary, or third party can legally issue an official duplicate. The SSA provides free replacement cards for lost, stolen, or damaged originals, as well as corrections for name, citizenship, gender marker, or date of birth. All applications require identity verification using government-issued documents. Processing typically takes seven to ten business days after submission. Online requests via a My SSA account are the fastest method. In-person visits to local offices are available for those who cannot apply online. Mail-in options exist but take longer due to shipping and manual review.
How to Request a Certified Copy of Your Social Security Card
Start by visiting the official SSA website at www.ssa.gov/ssnumber. Use the online questionnaire to determine your eligibility for digital submission. Most adults with a U.S. mailing address and valid ID can apply online. You’ll need your driver’s license, state ID, or passport ready for upload. The system verifies your identity using credit bureau data and recent activity. Once confirmed, submit your request and receive an electronic confirmation. Your new card arrives by mail within ten business days. There is no fee for this service. Keep your confirmation number for tracking.
Required Documents for Adults
Adults must present proof of U.S. citizenship and identity. Acceptable citizenship documents include an original birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate. For identity, use a current driver’s license, state-issued non-driver ID, or passport with photo. All documents must be originals or certified copies from the issuing agency. Photocopies, even if notarized, are not accepted. If you’re a non-citizen lawfully present in the U.S., you may use an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or foreign passport with a valid visa. Expired documents will be rejected. Ensure names match exactly across all forms.
Applying for a Child’s Replacement Card
Parents or legal guardians requesting a child’s certified copy must provide the child’s original birth certificate. They also need their own valid driver’s license or state ID. Complete the SS-5-F4 form either online or in person. In California, call 1-800-772-1213 to schedule an appointment. The TTY line 1-800-325-0778 assists callers with hearing loss. Processing takes about ten business days after all materials arrive. Only biological parents, adoptive parents, or court-appointed guardians may apply. Schools or medical providers cannot request on behalf of a child.
Online Application via My SSA Account
The quickest way to get a certified copy is through your personal My SSA account. Sign in at ssa.gov/myaccount. Answer security questions based on your financial and tax history. Upload a clear scan of your ID. The system checks for fraud and matches data against federal records. Once approved, you’ll see a confirmation screen. No paperwork is mailed unless requested. Your new card ships to your registered address within ten business days. This method avoids office wait times and reduces errors. It’s free and available 24/7.
In-Person Application at Local Offices
If you cannot apply online, visit your nearest Social Security office. Bring original documents for citizenship and identity. Staff will make certified copies and return originals immediately. Do not mail originals to Baltimore—this is unsafe and unnecessary. Offices operate Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., excluding federal holidays. Wait times vary; appointments are recommended. Use the office locator on ssa.gov to find hours and directions. Walk-ins are accepted but may face longer delays.
Mail-In Application Process
Mail applications are slower but available for those without internet access. Download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf. Include certified copies of your birth certificate and ID. Send to your local SSA office, not headquarters. Processing begins only after receipt. Allow extra time for postal delivery—up to three weeks total. Do not include cash or checks; the service is free. Use certified mail with return receipt to track delivery. Incomplete packages will be returned, causing further delay.
Name Changes and Corrections
To update your name after marriage, divorce, or court order, submit legal proof. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order must show both old and new names. Attach this to your SS-5 form. Gender marker updates require a court order or physician’s letter. Citizenship changes need a Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship. Date of birth corrections demand an original birth certificate. All supporting documents must be certified. Processing may take longer due to manual review.
What Notaries Can and Cannot Do
Notaries cannot certify copies of Social Security cards. Only the SSA holds authority to issue official duplicates. Notaries may witness signatures or administer oaths but not verify government documents. If someone asks you to notarize a Social Security card copy, direct them to ssa.gov. Misleading claims about notary certification can result in legal penalties. Always refer requesters to the correct federal agency.
Document Certification Standards
The SSA accepts only originals or certified copies from issuing agencies. A certified copy bears an official seal, signature, and date from the recorder—like a county clerk or vital records office. Photocopies, even with a notary stamp, are invalid. Examples include a birth certificate from the state health department or a passport issued by the State Department. Digital scans are accepted only during online applications. Never alter or laminate documents before submission.
Processing Times and Delivery
Most requests are processed within seven to ten business days. Online submissions are fastest. Mail-in applications add one to two weeks for transit. Holidays and high-volume periods may cause delays. The SSA does not offer expedited service. Your card ships via standard U.S. Postal Service. Track delivery using your confirmation number. If your card doesn’t arrive in 14 days, contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213.
Fees and Costs
There is no charge for a replacement Social Security card. The SSA provides up to three free replacements per year. Additional requests may be granted for valid reasons like name changes. Never pay third parties for application help—this is a scam. Official forms and services are free on ssa.gov. Beware of websites charging fees; they are not affiliated with the government.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Submitting photocopies instead of originals or certified copies is the top error. Others include expired IDs, mismatched names, or incomplete forms. Always double-check spelling and dates. Use black ink when filling out paper forms. Don’t staple or fold documents. Ensure your mailing address is current. Incorrect info leads to rejection and reapplication delays.
Identity Theft and Fraud Prevention
Protect your Social Security number from misuse. Only share it when legally required—like for employment or taxes. Monitor your credit report annually. If you suspect fraud, place a freeze with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Report lost cards immediately to the SSA and Federal Trade Commission. Free replacements help prevent unauthorized use.
Special Cases: Non-Citizens and Refugees
Lawful permanent residents, visa holders, and refugees may apply with proper documentation. Use a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), EAD, or foreign passport with I-94 record. Asylees need an asylum approval notice. All documents must be unexpired. The SSA verifies status with USCIS. Processing times are the same as for citizens.
Updating Gender Markers
To change your gender marker, submit a court order or letter from a licensed physician. The letter must state you have had appropriate clinical treatment. It does not need to specify surgery. Self-attestation is not accepted. Once updated, your new card reflects the change. This does not affect your Social Security number.
Citizenship Status Updates
Naturalized citizens must provide their Certificate of Naturalization. Those born abroad to U.S. parents need a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA). Dual citizens may use a U.S. passport. The SSA cross-checks with DHS databases. Allow extra time for verification if records are outdated.
Lost or Stolen Cards: Immediate Actions
If your card is lost or stolen, request a replacement right away. Monitor bank accounts and credit reports. File a report with the FTC at identitytheft.gov. Consider placing a fraud alert. The new card will have the same number—no reissuance occurs unless identity theft is confirmed. Keep your replacement in a secure location.
Replacement Limits and Exceptions
You can get up to three replacement cards per year and ten in a lifetime. Exceptions include name changes, legal status updates, or errors on the card. Contact the SSA to request a waiver. Provide proof of need, such as a court order or employer letter. Approval is not guaranteed but commonly granted for valid reasons.
Accessibility and Language Support
The SSA offers services in Spanish and other languages. Call 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. TTY users dial 1-800-325-0778. Multilingual staff are available at larger offices. Forms come in multiple languages online. Large-print and Braille materials can be requested by phone.
Appeals and Rejections
If your application is denied, you’ll receive a letter explaining why. Common reasons include insufficient documentation or identity mismatch. You may resubmit with corrected materials. For disputes, request a review by calling the SSA. Formal appeals are rare for card replacements but possible under federal rules.
International Requests
U.S. citizens living abroad can apply at Federal Benefits Units in embassies or consulates. Required documents are the same. Mail processing takes longer—allow four to six weeks. Some countries have local SSA liaisons. Check ssa.gov for overseas office locations.
Digital Security and Privacy
Your My SSA account uses multi-factor authentication. Never share login details. The SSA will never ask for your password by phone or email. Report phishing attempts to reportfraud.ssa.gov. All data transmissions are encrypted. Your personal info is protected under the Privacy Act.
Related Government Services
While obtaining your Social Security card, you may also need a birth certificate from your state’s vital records office or a passport from the State Department. These agencies often coordinate with the SSA. Keep copies of all documents in a safe place.
Contact Information and Office Hours
Call the SSA toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. TTY: 1-800-325-0778. Hours: Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time. Offices open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visit www.ssa.gov/locator to find your nearest branch. No walk-in appointments after 3:30 p.m.
Social Security Administration
6401 Security Blvd
Baltimore, MD 21235
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about getting a certified copy of your Social Security card. Each answer provides clear, actionable guidance based on current SSA policies.
Can I get a certified copy of my Social Security card online?
Yes, most adults can request a replacement card online through a My SSA account. You must have a valid U.S. mailing address, a driver’s license from certain states, and be able to pass identity verification questions. The process takes minutes, and your card arrives by mail within ten business days. This is the fastest and most secure method. No fees apply. If you don’t qualify online, you can apply in person or by mail.
What documents do I need to replace my Social Security card?
You need proof of U.S. citizenship and identity. Citizenship documents include an original birth certificate, U.S. passport, or naturalization certificate. Identity documents must be current and include a photo—such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. All must be originals or certified copies from the issuing agency. Photocopies, even if notarized, are not accepted. Non-citizens may use an EAD or foreign passport with a visa.
How long does it take to receive a replacement Social Security card?
Processing typically takes seven to ten business days after the SSA receives your complete application. Online requests are processed fastest. Mail-in applications add one to two weeks for delivery. Holidays and high-volume periods may delay service. Your card ships via standard U.S. mail. If it doesn’t arrive within 14 days, call 1-800-772-1213 to check status.
Can a notary public certify a copy of my Social Security card?
No. Notaries cannot certify copies of Social Security cards. Only the Social Security Administration can issue official duplicates. Notaries may only witness signatures or administer oaths. If someone asks you to notarize a Social Security card copy, direct them to ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213. Attempting to certify such copies may violate state laws.
What should I do if my Social Security card is lost or stolen?
Request a replacement immediately through your My SSA account, by phone, or in person. Monitor your credit reports and bank accounts for suspicious activity. Report the loss to the FTC at identitytheft.gov. Consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze. The new card will have the same number unless identity theft is confirmed. Keep your replacement in a secure location.
Is there a fee to replace my Social Security card?
No. The SSA provides replacement cards free of charge. You are allowed up to three replacements per year and ten in a lifetime. Additional requests may be granted for valid reasons like name changes or legal status updates. Never pay third-party websites claiming to expedite service—they are scams. All official forms and processes are free on ssa.gov.
Can I update my name or gender on my Social Security card?
Yes. To change your name, submit a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing both names. For gender marker updates, provide a court order or physician’s letter confirming appropriate clinical treatment. Citizenship or date of birth changes require certified documents like a naturalization certificate or amended birth certificate. Submit these with Form SS-5.