100,000 Fewer People in Line at Social Security Offices

Posted on October 13, 2016 by Doug Walker, Deputy Commissioner, Communications

Losing an important document, like a Social Security card, can sometimes be a hassle. But it doesn’t have to be. Social Security is with you throughout life’s journey, not just when you’re ready to retire.
We’re here in the event that you need disability benefits, survivors benefits, a record of your earnings, and even when you need to request a replacement Social Security card.

And now, if you live in a growing number of states, you can request a replacement Social Security card online.  Our new online version of the Application for a Replacement Social Security Card can make getting a replacement super easy and stress free. It allows people in certain areas to apply for a replacement card through our secure my Social Security portal without traveling to a field office or card center as long as you’re not requesting a name change or any other change to your card.

One hundred thousand people have already replaced their card through their personal my Social Security account. Yes, that’s right, 100,000! You can be one of the next 100,000 who replaces their Social Security card online, as long as you meet certain requirements.

Currently, the District of Columbia, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Washington, and Wisconsin provide residents with online access to replace their cards. Later this year we plan to add more states to this growing list.

To get started, 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. Your security and protection is what matters the most. Once you have a personal account, simply access your account and follow the instructions to replace your Social Security card. It’s safe, convenient, and secure.

Keep in mind that in many cases, even if you lost your card, you may not need a replacement. In most cases, simply knowing your Social Security number is enough. But if you do need a replacement, we make it easy.

Learn more about getting a replacement Social Security card and find out if you can request yours online by visiting our New or Replacement Social Security and Number page.

http://blog.socialsecurity.gov/100000-fewer-people-in-line-at-social-security-offices/