Having a Social Security number (SSN) is important for several reasons, including helping the Social Security Administration (SSA) identify and accurately record covered wages or earnings and monitor your record once you start getting benefits.

You also need an SSN to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and get some other government services.

This nine-digit number is shown on your Social Security card, which you may have to provide as proof of identity in some cases. It's important to keep your card in a safe place so it can be accessed when necessary, but if you've lost your card, changed your name through marriage or divorce, or simply need a replacement card, you can easily apply for a new one through the SSA.

Here is more information about how to replace a Social Security card, including documents you'll need, questions on the application, and tips for filling it out online or through a paper form.

How to replace a Social Security card

The best and most reliable way to get a Social Security card, either new or a replacement, is through the SSA. They provide these services for free and offer the option to complete the application online or print and fill out a paper application and mail it in or drop it off at your local Social Security office.

Regardless of the application type you choose, you should take time to gather the appropriate documents and information to ensure your application is approved and you receive your new card as quickly as possible.

What documents do you need for a Social Security card?

When you apply for a Social Security card, there are a few documents you'll need depending on whether you:

• Are an adult or child
• Need an original, replacement, or corrected card
• Are U.S. born citizen, foreign born U.S. citizen, or noncitizen

All documents you use or submit must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies or notarized copies are not accepted. If you need help getting a certified copy of a document showing birth, marriage, or divorce that took place within the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offers a by-state search tool with more information.

For this example, the card is for an adult, U.S. born citizen. However, you can find all requirements on Social Security's website.

Documents for an original Social Security Card

Documents you'll need include proof of:

If you're age 12 or older and requesting an original SSN, you must appear for an in-person interview and provide evidence to show you do not have an SSN.

Also note that some documents may serve multiple purposes. For example, a passport could show proof of identity, citizenship, and age. However, you must send at least two separate documents.

Documents for a replacement Social Security Card

If your Social Security card was lost or stolen, it can be replaced for free. However, you're limited to three replacement cards in a year, and 10 during your lifetime. (Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward the limits.)

Documents you'll need include proof of :

Typically, replacement card processing takes six to 10 business days. Rarely, requests may take up to 10 business days for review before the card is mailed. You will receive an email notification once the card is mailed.

Documents for a corrected Social Security Card

You may legally change your name because of divorce, marriage, a court order, or other reason. If this happens, you must tell Social Security and get a corrected Social Security card. Otherwise, it could prevent your wages from being posted correctly to your record, or cause delays when you file your taxes.

Documents you'll need include proof of:

If the document you provide does not give enough information, or you changed your name more than two years ago (or four years ago if you're 18 or younger), you must show an identity document in your prior name. It's ok if this document is expired.

Your new card will have the same SSN as your previous card, but it will show your new name.

Questions on a Social Security card application

When filling out an application for a new or replacement card, you'll be asked to answer several questions (in addition to providing paperwork), including (but not limited to):

• Name
• SSN (if you had one)
• Place of birth
• Date of birth
• Citizenship
• Ethnicity
• Race
• Parent's name/social security
• Phone number
• Mailing address

While the questions are meant to help confirm your identity and ensure you're receiving the right card and information, it's critical you answer all questions honestly and to the best of your ability. If you have questions, contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). And remember, unless you have requested a call, nobody from Social Security or Medicare will ever call you.

How to fill out a Social Security card application

There are two ways to fill out a Social Security card application: online or via a paper application form.

Online

You can apply for a replacement Social Security card online if you:

• Are a U.S. citizen
• Are age 18 or older
• Have a U.S. mailing address
• Are not requesting a name change or any other change to your card
• Have a driver's license or state-issued identification cards from a participating state

In Delaware, Nevada, and Wisconsin, the online service is only available if you have a driver's license.

This service is not yet available at all for those who live in Alaska, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, or West Virginia. It's also not available if your license or identification card was issued by a U.S. territory, such as American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

You can apply online through your my Social Security account. Once you log in, select "Replace your Social Security card" and answer the questions to confirm your eligibility and identity.

Paper application form

If you do not qualify to apply for a card online, or if you prefer another option, you can use a paper application to:

• Apply for an original card
• Apply for a replacement card
• Change or correct information within your record

In order for you application to be processed, you must provide all the information and documentation required. There are instructions for each field on the application and included in the paperwork.

You can then drop off your application at any Social Security office or mail it in. Use the Social Security Office Locator tool to find a location near you. Please note that many local Social Security offices are still closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Always call ahead to be sure the office is open and accepting applications.

If you mail in your application, please do not include original primary documents that should be kept in your possession, such as driver's license, passport, or immigration documents. If you prefer, you can mail secondary evidence of identity or less sensitive material. If you do not have secondary documents, call your local office to learn the best option.

All documents you send in will be returned to you.

Do you need a Social Security card to apply for benefits?

When you apply for Social Security retirement benefits, you'll be asked to provide a variety of information and documentation.

One of these documents may include a record of your SSN, typically via a Social Security card. However, if you don't have a card, other documents, such as your birth certificate or tax returns, may suffice.

Even if you don't have everything you need, like if you're waiting on a replacement card, don't delay in applying for Social Security retirement benefits. You have the option to provide those documents later and may even be able to get help from Social Security at no cost to you.