Your Social Security card needs to be kept in a safe place because it contains one of the most critical pieces of personally identifiable information (PII). You'll need your Social Security number (SSN) to get a loan, get a new job, file your taxes, collect Social Security benefits, or even have a life insurance plan. However, if you lose your Social Security card, you may need to replace it for use in any situation where remembering the nine-digit number isn't enough.
Read on to learn more about how you can apply for a new Social Security card.
How to Get a Replacement Card for Your SSN
If you live in an eligible state, you may be able to replace your lost or stolen Social Security card online via the
Social Security Administration (SSA) website. The SSA offers this service for free, but you'll need to log into your
My Social Security account to use it. Also, keep in mind that online replacement doesn't support making changes to your card, including changing your name.
The SSA notes that you can't apply for a new Social Security card on the website in any of the following states:
- West Virginia
- Nevada
- Oklahoma
- Minnesota
- New Hampshire
If you live in a non-eligible state, you can go to your local Social Security office and present any required paperwork in person.
Documents Required to Get a Replacement Card
If you intend to apply for a new Social Security card, it's important that you gather the required original documents or their certified copies. Generally, you'll need to provide the following:
- Your birth certificate or passport to show that you're a U.S. citizen
- Proof of identity (can be your driver's license or ID card issued by a participating state or the District of Columbia)
- If you don't have a driver's license or state-issued proof of identity, you may provide your employee or school ID
Typically, your specific situation, including your state of residence, will determine what other documents you may need to attach to your replacement card application. You may reach out to your local Social Security office for additional help with any difficult aspect of the card application process.
Waiting Period for a Replacement Social Security Card
According to the SSA, it shouldn't take more than two weeks to get a new Social Security card after you have provided all the required paperwork and your application is processed. You can even get it in 10 days, barring any problems with the documents you supplied.
However, the SSA has a cap on the number of times you can get a new replacement Social Security card. For instance, you can only request three such cards per year and a maximum of 10 replacements over your lifetime.
This limit doesn't have to pose a problem for you, though. For example, you can try to keep your card in a safe place, such as where you keep crucial personal documents.
You may also want to consider your specific circumstances before applying to replace your card. Keep in mind that, throughout your lifetime, you may be able to use your SSN in many situations without having to provide a physical card.
However, in the event of identity theft, you may need to do more than just replace your lost card. It may entail applying for a new government-assigned SSN to protect your identity from abuse.
Getting a replacement Social Security card should be fairly straightforward, especially if you're eligible to request it online. Your SSN can help you secure an ideal life insurance plan. When you are ready to secure the right
life insurance for your finances and family, talk to the team at Kneller Agency today. We are ready to get started on your tailored coverage that can help your family through the toughest of times. At Kneller Agency, we are fully committed to helping you get the protection that you need. As an independent agency, we work for you, getting you the best price and coverage from among our many providers.
