A Faster and More Convenient Way to Request a Social Security Number and Card
Reading Time: 2 MinutesLast Updated: January 10, 2025
Do you need an original Social Security number or a replacement Social Security card? We offer a faster and more convenient way for you to start – and possibly finish – the application online.
When you visit our Social Security number and card page, we’ll ask you a few questions to determine the best way for you to apply. You may be able to:
- Complete the application online.
- Start the application online, self-schedule an appointment, then bring any required documents to your local Social Security office or card center to complete the process.
- Schedule an in-office appointment to complete your application. If you are not able to use our online option or you do not get the option to schedule an appointment online, you can call 1-800-772-1213 to make an appointment at a local office or card center.
By starting the application online, your in-office visit will typically take less time.
Note: We have recently expanded appointment-based services as part of our ongoing efforts to serve you more efficiently. If you need to visit a local Social Security office or card center, please make an appointment.
Finish your application in the office
Before your visit to complete your application, please follow these steps:
- Determine what documents you need to bring with you. They must be originals or certified copies.
- Follow directions at the kiosk when you arrive at the office. Our Mobile Check-in Express makes it easier to check in. To use Mobile Check-in Express, scan the QR code posted near the entrance and turn on your mobile notifications. We’ll alert you when we’re ready to help you.
- Meet with one of our employees who will verify the information you submitted online and review your documents. We don’t need to keep them.
That’s it! Whether you apply for a Social Security card online or at an office, we’ll process the application and mail a card to you, usually within 14 business days.
For more helpful information, watch our videos:
- Your Social Security Number & Card: What You Need to Know.
- Cards for U.S. Citizens – Children.
- Cards for Non-U.S. Citizens – Adults.
Please share this information with your friends and family – and post it on social media.
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Tags: General Information, online services, Social Security card
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Bianca L.
I ordered my social security cards 16 business days ago and have no received anything . Should I apply again ?
Michelle a.
So today we went to change my son’s name on his SS Card. We stood in line for 10 minutes to make an appointment for two weeks from now. An appointment for an action that from start to finish would take 5 minutes! The employee was rude and condescending and his answer to every one of my questions was “you have to make an appointment.” The couple in front of us was being screamed at and because the man had nerve enough to ask the lady to explain something he was told to leave her cubicle area or she would call security over. Wow! Unreal! Gotta LOVE Manassas Social Security Office!
C.B.
Hi, Michelle. Thank you for using our blog and for your comment. We’re sorry to hear of your experience and we understand your frustration. Please complete our Feedback Form, which will give our team a better understanding of how we can improve our processes. In the meantime, we have forwarded your note to our colleagues in Manassas. We value your opinion and look forward to hearing from you.
Richard S.
Hey SSA,
If you can not use texting for the solution of any problems or booking an appointmet then you need to state that The SSA uses NO text lines. And if a text number is given it’s a scam!!
In big Red Letters!! “NO TEXTING”
C.B.
Hi, Richard. Thank you for using our blog. And thanks for your suggestion about text messages from our agency. You can submit your suggestion by visiting our Contact Us page. Once there, select the “Email Us” link. This will take you to the “Email A Question to our Support Team” form, where you can submit your suggestion. We hope this information is helpful.
angry b.
SS FORM-1099 arrived with my full SSN printed twice on the form.
Christopher O.
Trying to get my newborn childs SS card. First never arrived in the mail so I don’t know the number. Can only make an appointment for this by phone.
Why can’t more options do online appointment setup? Going appointment only for physical locations without sufficient call operators, or sufficient online appointment scheduling, is an insane decision.
I have a 2 hour wait, without the option for callback like it’s 2025.
This is not an improvement.
C.B.
Hi. We’re sorry to hear about your experience, Christopher. We ask for your patience during busy periods. Our National 800 number is available Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Wait times to speak to a representative are typically shorter in the morning, later in the week, and later in the month. You can also submit feedback by visiting our Contact Social Security webpage. Once there, select the “Email Us” link. This will take you to the “Email A Question to our Support Team” form, where you can complete and submit a compliment, complaint, or suggestion. We hope this helps.
Ursula M.
My husband died 10/18/24. The Social Security Retirement benefit check he received via direct deposit on 10/21/24 was then returned to SS on 11/7/24. My understanding is that the check he received in October was for the month of September. Why was that taken away from him? He died in October, not September. I have tried calling numerous times to make an appt. at our local office but have yet to speak with anyone. There has to be a better way to get resolution of this issue.
Lukman
It may take longer than expected to get in touch with calling. But you can use their text service on 279-200-6322. They respond faster and are available 24 hours.
C.B.
Hi, Lukman. The Social Security Administration does not conduct business via text message using this number.
S.S.
We’re sorry for your loss, Ursula. If your husband received Social Security benefits, your understanding is correct. Your husband’s October check was for his September benefits, so it appears there may be an underpayment payable on your husband’s record. If so, we will pay it to a family member or legal representative of the estate.
To learn how to file a claim and to find the downloadable form, visit our webpage: Claim For Amounts Due In The Case Of Deceased Beneficiary. You’ll find the mailing address and phone number of your local office using the Social Security Office Locator. Please be aware that our call volume and wait times are greater than normal. We hope this information helps.
Carla S.
I want an apt .. I have waited on the phone more than two hours
Lizzy
Use their text options for all inquiries 279-200-6322
Larry
Direct your inquiries via text to 279-200-6322
Clorinda P.
Thank you. I will use your text number. Finally a way to contact you!
C.B.
Hi, Chlorinda. The Social Security Administrations does not conduct business via text message. Please visit our Contact Us page.
C.B.
Hi, Larry. The Social Security Administration does not accept inquiries via text message.
Terri C.
I am needing an appt. to file for my SS. I lost my job in the beginning of this month. This is an emergency.
C.B.
Hi, Terry. Sorry to hear that. The most convenient way to apply for Social Security retirement benefits is online here. We hope this information is helpful.