So You've Lost Your Social Security Card
Losing important documents is frustrating, especially something as important as your Social Security card.  But there's no need to panic!

You rarely need the card itself- perhaps only when you get a new job and have to show it to your employer.  However, if you decide you really must replace your card, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber before visiting your local Social Security office.  There you will find a 'decision tree' that will walk you through the steps to getting a replacement card.

The first step is to learn what documents you need.  You'll need to show a U.S... birth certificate or U.S.. passport to prove your citizenship.  And, you'll need to produce a U.S.. driver's license, a state issued non-driver identification card, or a U.S.. passport to prove your identity.

Keep in mind that all documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.  They can't accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.  They also can not accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.

Once you're clear on what documents you'll need, the second step of the decision tree will take you to the Application for a Social Security Card, so you can print it and fill it out.  Finally, the third step will take you to a screen where you can find the address of your local office so you can take or mail your application and original documents to us.

You can replace your Social Security card for free from Social Security if it is lost or stolen.  Stay away from services that want to charge you a fee to get your replacement card.  Keep in mind that 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 these limits.  Changes in immigration status that require card updates may not count toward these limits.  Also, you aren't affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a signification hardship.

They'll mail your card as soon as they have all of your information and have verified your documents.  Your replacement card will have the same name and number as your previous card.