How to Replace a Lost or Misplaced Social Security Card

A social security card is a vital document that may need to be presented to receive some government benefits. Most people only need to know the number, but if the card is lost, it should be replaced as soon as possible. You will need to gather several other documents to prove you had the original card and to get the government to issue a replacement.

Instructions

1. Complete form SS-5, which is the official application for a social security card. It is available at ssa.gov or the local social security office.

2. Make a certified copy of your birth certificate, or a marriage or divorce that took place in the United States.

3. Take form SS-5, the document copy, your driver's license or government-issued identification and proof of United States citizenship to the local social security office. Proof of citizenship can include a birth certificate, a passport, a certificate of naturalization or consular report of birth. These can be mailed as well, but you must mail the original copies of all of these documents.

References

• Social Security