Do you need a new Social Security card? Maybe you lost your old one, or maybe it was stolen. Whatever the reason, getting a new Social Security card is a relatively simple process.
In this article, we'll walk you through the steps you need to take to get a new Social Security card. We'll also provide some tips on how to keep your Social Security card safe and secure.
Here are the steps you need to take to get a new Social Security card:
How to Get a New Social Security Card
Follow these steps to obtain a replacement Social Security card.
- Gather documents.
- Complete application.
- Visit Social Security office.
- Provide original documents.
- Receive new card.
- Keep card safe.
- Report lost or stolen card.
- Update records.
By following these steps, you can easily get a new Social Security card and protect your personal information.
Gather documents.
Before you visit the Social Security office, you need to gather the following documents:
Proof of identity:
- Original or certified copy of your birth certificate.
- Valid driver's license or state-issued ID card.
- Passport.
- Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship.
Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status:
- Social Security card (if you have one).
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
- Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- Refugee or Asylee Document.
Other documents:
- Completed Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5).
- Evidence of name change (if applicable).
- Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, etc.).
If you are unable to provide original documents, you may be able to provide certified copies or other acceptable documents. For more information, please visit the Social Security website or call the Social Security Administration.
Complete application.
Once you have gathered all of the required documents, you need to complete an application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5).
You can download the application from the Social Security website or pick one up at your local Social Security office.
When completing the application, be sure to provide accurate and complete information. This includes your full name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number (if you have one).
You will also need to provide information about your parents and spouse (if applicable).
Once you have completed the application, sign and date it. You will need to bring the completed application with you when you visit the Social Security office.
Visit Social Security office.
Once you have gathered all of the required documents and completed the application, you need to visit your local Social Security office.
You can find the address and phone number of your local Social Security office on the Social Security website.
When you visit the Social Security office, you will need to bring the following items with you:
- Completed application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5).
- Original or certified copies of your identity documents.
- Original or certified copies of your citizenship or immigration status documents.
- Proof of address.
- Evidence of name change (if applicable).
A Social Security representative will review your application and documents and ask you some questions.
Once your application is approved, you will be issued a new Social Security card.
Provide original documents.
When you visit the Social Security office, you will need to provide the original documents that you used to support your application.
This includes your birth certificate, driver's license or state-issued ID card, passport, and Social Security card (if you have one).
You will also need to provide original documents that prove your U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status.
This could include your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or Refugee or Asylee Document.
The Social Security representative will review your original documents and make copies for their records.
Once your documents have been verified, you will be issued a new Social Security card.
Receive new card.
Once your application has been approved and your documents have been verified, you will be issued a new Social Security card.
- Your new card will be mailed to you within 10 business days.
However, you may be able to get your card sooner if you visit a Social Security office and request an expedited card.
- When you receive your new card, check it carefully to make sure that all of the information is correct.
If there is any incorrect information on your card, you should contact the Social Security Administration immediately.
- Activate your new card.
You can activate your new card by calling the Social Security Administration or by visiting your local Social Security office.
- Start using your new card.
Once your card is activated, you can start using it to access your Social Security benefits and services.
Your new Social Security card is an important document. Keep it in a safe place and protect it from fraud and identity theft.
Keep card safe.
Your Social Security card is a valuable document that you should protect from fraud and identity theft.
- Keep your card in a safe place.
Do not carry your card around with you unless you need it.
- Memorize your Social Security number.
This way, you can provide it when necessary without having to carry your card with you.
- Do not give your Social Security number to anyone you do not trust.
Only provide your Social Security number when it is absolutely necessary.
- Be careful when using your Social Security card.
Do not let anyone photocopy your card or write down your Social Security number without your permission.
If you suspect that your Social Security card has been lost, stolen, or compromised, you should contact the Social Security Administration immediately.
Report lost or stolen card.
If you lose or have your Social Security card stolen, you should report it to the Social Security Administration immediately.
You can report a lost or stolen Social Security card online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.
When you report a lost or stolen Social Security card, the Social Security Administration will cancel your old card and issue you a new one.
Here are the steps you need to take to report a lost or stolen Social Security card:
- Contact the Social Security Administration.
You can do this online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office. - Provide your personal information.
This includes your name, Social Security number, and date of birth. - Report the loss or theft of your card.
Provide the date and location where you lost or had your card stolen. - Request a new card.
The Social Security Administration will issue you a new Social Security card within 10 business days.
Update records.
Once you have received your new Social Security card, you need to update your records with any organizations or individuals that have your old Social Security number.
This includes your employer, bank, credit card companies, and government agencies.
You can also update your Social Security number online through the Social Security Administration's website.
Here are some tips for updating your records:
- Contact your employer.
Provide your employer with your new Social Security number as soon as possible. - Contact your bank and credit card companies.
Provide your bank and credit card companies with your new Social Security number. You may need to provide a copy of your new Social Security card. - Contact government agencies.
Provide government agencies, such as the IRS and Social Security Administration, with your new Social Security number. - Update your online accounts.
Update your Social Security number on any online accounts that you have.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to get a new Social Security card:
Question 1: How long does it take to get a new Social Security card?
Answer 1: It usually takes about 10 business days to receive a new Social Security card.
Question 2: Can I get a new Social Security card online?
Answer 2: No, you cannot apply for a new Social Security card online. You must visit a Social Security office in person.
Question 3: What documents do I need to bring with me to the Social Security office?
Answer 3: You will need to bring original or certified copies of your birth certificate, driver's license or state-issued ID card, passport, and Social Security card (if you have one).
Question 4: What if I don't have all of the required documents?
Answer 4: If you do not have all of the required documents, you may be able to provide other acceptable documents. For more information, please visit the Social Security website or call the Social Security Administration.
Question 5: How much does it cost to get a new Social Security card?
Answer 5: It is free to get a new Social Security card.
Question 6: What should I do if my Social Security card is lost or stolen?
Answer 6: If your Social Security card is lost or stolen, you should report it to the Social Security Administration immediately. You can do this online, by phone, or in person at your local Social Security office.
Question 7: How can I update my records with my new Social Security number?
Answer 7: Once you have received your new Social Security card, you need to update your records with any organizations or individuals that have your old Social Security number. This includes your employer, bank, credit card companies, and government agencies.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ: If you have any other questions about how to get a new Social Security card, please visit the Social Security website or call the Social Security Administration.
Here are some additional tips for getting a new Social Security card:
Tips
Here are some additional tips for getting a new Social Security card:
Tip 1: Gather your documents in advance.
Make sure you have all of the required documents before you visit the Social Security office. This will help to speed up the process.
Tip 2: Make an appointment.
You can make an appointment at your local Social Security office online or by phone. This will help to ensure that you are served quickly and efficiently.
Tip 3: Be prepared to wait.
Even if you make an appointment, you may still have to wait a while at the Social Security office. Bring something to read or do to help pass the time.
Tip 4: Be polite and respectful.
The Social Security office staff are there to help you. Be polite and respectful to them, even if you are frustrated.
Closing Paragraph for Tips: Getting a new Social Security card can be a hassle, but it is important to have one in order to access your Social Security benefits and services. By following these tips, you can make the process as smooth and easy as possible.
Once you have received your new Social Security card, be sure to keep it in a safe place and update your records with any organizations or individuals that have your old Social Security number.
Conclusion
Getting a new Social Security card is a relatively simple process, but it is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure that your application is processed quickly and efficiently.
Here are the main points to remember:
- Gather the required documents before you visit the Social Security office.
- Make an appointment at your local Social Security office.
- Be prepared to wait at the Social Security office.
- Be polite and respectful to the Social Security office staff.
- Keep your new Social Security card in a safe place.
- Update your records with any organizations or individuals that have your old Social Security number.
Closing Message: If you have any questions about how to get a new Social Security card, please visit the Social Security website or call the Social Security Administration.