No. The Social Security Administration does not charge for either an original or a replacement card. Also, there is no charge when you apply at a hospital for a Social Security number for a newborn.

Some private companies--not affiliated with Social Security or any other government agency--charge fees for this service. However, these companies offer no advantage. You still will have to provide documents proving your U.S. citizenship or immigrant status, age and identity directly to Social Security. Be wary of giving out your private information--especially your Social Security number--to anyone online.

To apply for an original Social Security number:

• Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and
• Show documents proving your:

• U.S. citizenship (or immigrant status and work eligibility);
• Age; and
• Identity.

• Take your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office.

The Social Security Administration will mail your card as soon as they have all of your information and have verified your documents.

If you need a replacement card, you do not have to visit a Social Security office in person. You can mail your application and original documents. Remember, you are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during a lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward these limits. For example, changes in immigration 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.

For more information, see Documents You Need for a Social Security Card.

Keep your Social Security card in a safe place. It is an important document. Do not carry it with you.