We strive to provide you world-class service. With that in mind, Social Security rolled out a new service that allows some of our customers to request a replacement Social Security card online.
The new online version of the Application for a Replacement Social Security Card allows people in some states to request a replacement card online through our secure my Social Security portal without traveling to a field office.
Currently available in the District of Columbia, Michigan, Nebraska, Washington, and Wisconsin, it’s an easy, convenient, and secure way to request a replacement card online. First, you’ll need to create a my Social Security account. When you open a my Social Security account, we protect your information by using strict identity verification and security features. The application process has built-in features to detect fraud and confirm your identity. In certain cases, security experts at Social Security will contact you to ensure it is a legitimate application. We only issue a replacement card if there’s no suspicion of fraud and then we only mail it to a verified address.
To take advantage of this new service option, you must:
- Have or create a my Social Security account;
- Have a valid driver’s license in a participating state or the District of Columbia (or a state-issued identification card in some states);
- Be age 18 or older and a United States citizen with a domestic U.S. mailing address (this includes APO, FPO, and DPO addresses); and
- Not be requesting a name change or any other changes to your card.
We plan to add more states, so we encourage you to check with us later in the year!
Before you request a replacement card online, you may want to consider whether you need to get a replacement card at all. Most times, knowing your number is what’s important. You’ll rarely need the card itself, perhaps only when you get a new job and have to show it to your employer. If you decide that you do need a replacement card, log into your personal my Social Security account and select “Request a Replacement Card.” Next, answer the screening questions to confirm eligibility, complete personal data, and you’re done!
See how easy that was? If you are still having difficulty, please contact our office for assistance.
-Posted on Social Security Matters February 1, 2016 by Jim Borland, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, Communications
