If your Social Security card has been stolen, you can apply for a replacement card. Usually, the only time you will need to produce your card is when you apply for employment.

You can replace your card for free if it is lost or stolen. However, you are 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. For example, changes in noncitizen status that require card updates may not count toward these limits. Also, you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.

To get a replacement card:

• Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and
• Show documents proving:
  • U.S. citizenship (or immigration status and work eligibility); and
  • Identity.
• Take (or mail) your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office.

For details about evidence requirements and for more information, see Documents You Need for a Social Security Card.

When you apply for a replacement card, also ask Social Security to review your earnings records to ensure they are correct and that no one else is using your number to work. Likewise, verify your earnings each time you get your annual Social Security Statement.

Keep your Social Security card in a safe place with your other important papers. Do not carry it with you. For further information about protecting your card and yourself, see Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number (Publication No. 05-10064) and Your Social Security Number and Card (Publication No. 05-10002).