Important: Need an in-person visit? Start online and self-schedule at ssa.gov/ICON.
April 12, 2026 Update: 3 replacements per year / 10 lifetime limit still applies. Citizens 18+ with no record changes can replace online instantly. Non-citizens & first-time applicants need original DHS/USCIS documents.
Social Security Card Replacement OR First-Time SSN Application in 2026
Lost, stolen, or damaged card? Brand new SSN for immigrants? Both are free. You usually don't need the physical card if you know your SSN — here's the complete, up-to-date process.
✓ First-Time SSN Application (New Immigrants & Visa Holders)
Most new arrivals must apply in person after 10 days in the U.S. Free • 7-14 business days by mail.
Wait 10 Days After Entry
Allow DHS/SEVIS records to update.
Gather Original Documents
Passport + I-94 + I-797 (or I-20/DS-2019/EAD) + job/school letter.
Start Online & Schedule Appointment
ssa.gov → system directs you to ICON appointment.
Attend Appointment
Bring ALL originals. SSA issues SSN immediately if needed for work/school.
Receive Card
Mailed to your U.S. address in 7-14 business days.
Pro Tips: Always use originals. Check I-94 first at i94.cbp.dhs.gov. Bring job offer or school letter for faster processing.
Replacement Process for Existing SSN Holders
Limits: 3 per year • 10 lifetime (exceptions for name/work changes). Processing: ~10 business days.
Check Eligibility
U.S. citizens 18+ with no changes → online
Apply
my Social Security or Form SS-5 + documents.
Receive
Card mailed. Call 1-800-772-1213 if delayed past 3 weeks.
Official step-by-step video (updated April 2026)
Let’s Get Started Right Now
Download Form SS-5 (PDF) Replace Card Online Schedule Appointment Printable ChecklistReplacement Limits (2026)
per year
lifetime (exceptions apply)
All services are free — beware of scam sites charging fees.
13 Real-World Examples: Documents Required (per SSA POMS)
All examples are based on official SSA Program Operations Manual System (POMS) rules. Always bring original documents only. Latest POMS reference: secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf
1. U.S. Citizen – Lost SSN Card
POMS RM 00203.020 & RM 00203.030
- Valid U.S. driver’s license or state ID
- Passport or birth certificate (if no photo ID)
2. U.S. Citizen – Name Change (Marriage/Divorce)
POMS RM 00203.030
- Marriage certificate or divorce decree
- Current photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Birth certificate (if needed)
3. New H-1B Visa Holder (First-Time SSN)
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport with H-1B visa stamp
- I-94 record printout
- I-797 approval notice + LCA
4. F-1 Student with OPT/CPT
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport
- I-20 with OPT/CPT endorsement
- Form I-94 + EAD card (if OPT)
5. J-1 Exchange Visitor
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport
- DS-2019 form
- Sponsor letter
6. EAD / Work Authorization Holder
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport
- I-766 EAD card
- I-797 approval notice
7. L-1 Intracompany Transferee
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport
- I-94 record
- I-797 L-1 approval notice
8. K-1 Fiancé(e) / K-3 Spouse
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport
- I-94 record
- K-1/K-3 visa stamp + I-797
9. TN Visa (USMCA)
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport
- I-94 record
- TN letter from employer + proof of citizenship
10. Green Card / Permanent Resident
POMS RM 00203.100
- Green Card (I-551)
- Valid passport
11. O-1 Extraordinary Ability Visa
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport
- I-94 record
- I-797 O-1 approval notice
12. K-1 Fiancé(e) Dependent
POMS RM 00203.100
- Valid passport
- I-94 record
- K-1 visa stamp + I-797 + marriage proof (if applicable)
13. Green Card Dependent (Spouse/Child)
POMS RM 00203.100
- Green Card (I-551) or I-797
- Valid passport
- Proof of relationship
📋 Detailed Visa-Specific SSN Guides (2026)
H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa
After I-797 Approval
Wait for I-94 to update (1-3 days after entry).
Required Documents
Passport + H-1B visa stamp + I-94 + I-797 + LCA.
Schedule ICON Appointment
ssa.gov routes you to in-person.
At SSA
SSN issued immediately for work authorization.
POMS: RM 00203.100 • Bring original LCA.
Have a Question About Your SSN?
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