Having quick access to your social security card is essential so you can quickly and easily provide proof of your work eligibility and your identity. You never know when your social security card may be needed, so if your card has been lost or stolen, you should quickly move to get a replacement. After you obtain a replacement, keep your card in a secure location and only take it out when needed to prevent losing your social security card in the future.

Replacing your social security card is a free process that can usually be done by mail, but is best done in person to prevent losing sensitive documents in the mail. If you live in Orlando, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Sacramento County, California or in the New York City metro area, you will need to apply for a replacement card in person at your social security card center.

1. Fill out From SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. This form is available online at socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.html, at your local post office and at social security offices.
2. Collect proof of your citizenship and identity. You will need the original documents or certified documents.
   1. Citizenship Proof: U.S. Passport, birth certificate, Naturalization document
   2. Identity Proof: [[Driver’s License]], Passport, State Issued Identification Card
   3. Non-U.S. Citizens will need their Permanent Resident card or application for permanent residency proof
3. Go to your local Social Security Office. You can find your closest office at https://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/FOLO/fo001.jsp, or you can call 1-800-772-1213.
4. Present your completed application and identity and citizenship proof.
5. Your application will be reviewed by a Social Security agent. Depending on the location, you may receive your replacement the same day, or you may have to wait for your replacement social security card to be mailed to you.

If you are unable to apply for your replacement in person, you can mail your forms and your original documents to your closest Social Security Card Center. A listing of locations is available on your application form and at socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.html.

If you believe your social security card has been stolen, you must take extra steps to protect yourself from identity theft.

1. File an identity theft complaint with the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) at 1-877-438-4338.
2. Report the theft to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (http://www.ic3.gov)
3. Review your Social Security Records to make sure incorrect income is not being reported due to identity theft by calling 1-800-772-1213.
4. Routinely check your credit reports and report any suspicious activity quicklyhttp://ssa-custhelp.ssa.gov/cgi-bin/ssa.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_faqid=329

Review your new card when you receive it to ensure all information is correct. Decide on a secure location for your card for safekeeping. Consider placing it in a safety deposit box or in a secure filing system. Tell close family members where your card is located in case you need assistance locating it in the future.