What Steps Can You Take When You Need A New Social Security Card Quickly?
When your social security card has been lost or stolen, don’t panic. Yes, the situation needs to be monitored and reported, but we’re all instructed to monitor our credit and more to prevent identity theft these days. Moreover, the fastest you’re going to get a replacement SS card in hand is 10-14 business days. That said, it’s time to shed some light on the positive, as you’re about to find out ordering a replacement card can be as simple as filling out an online application.
Photo/Daria Nepriakhina
If you’ve never had a social security card before, getting one via an online application isn’t going to happen. Additionally, if you’re needing to change your name, that paperwork isn’t able to be submitted online. You can fill out an online application, however, for a replacement SS card without any changes. Before you head off in that direction, there are some things you need to know.
There is a list of states on the SSA website to show who is eligible to apply online for a replacement SS card. and so far, 20 make the list. The SSA states on their website that they are working to add more states as they are able. It was mentioned that 20 are on the list, but two are listed in blue underneath the list with a special note. There is a reason for that.
If you live in one of the 18 states that make up the initial list, you can use information on not just a driver’s license, but also a state ID to fill out your online replacement SS card application. If you live in Delaware or Wisconsin, the two states in blue at the bottom of the list, then you can only use information on your driver’s license, meaning no state IDs are accepted.
While you don’t have to show your driver’s license to anyone when filling out an application online, you do need your DL number and expiration. If you live in a state where using a state ID is allowed, then the information on that ID will suffice.
Let’s say that you aren’t able to fill out the online application. Assuming that’s the case, you can still access the application and print it to fill out in the comfort of your own home. You can also mail it off vs taking it to the office, though that will delay the processing of your application by a day or two. Still, you get to avoid the trip to the SSA office that way.
You still have to provide the documentation if you mail in your application though. With the online application, there is no documentation necessary. You just need your driver’s license or state ID handy so you have easy access to the information, and you have to prove your identity and citizenship by answering simple questions.
You will also be registering for a My Social Security account. You handle this step first, and you will get an email to confirm you now have an online account with the SSA. Your next step would be to find the link for the replacement card application, and it’s easy to spot. You will then start filling out the application.
In just a few short minutes, you will be submitting that application and getting another confirmation email. All you do after that is wait for your new social security card to arrive in the mail. It is again important to note the difference between a new social security card and a replacement social security card. As you can see, the terms are sometimes used interchangeably when referring to replacement cards.
Your card will be new in this case, but it’s a replacement card. Anyone who has not previously had a SS card must make a trip to the SSA office to get one. There are no exceptions. There are other instances where you need to make that in person visit, too, like when you are changing your name.
You might even decide to visit the local SSA office for a replacement card if you don’t see your state on the eligibility list. In my opinion, a trip to the office might be easier than mailing in the application, considering you would still have to provide documentation. Here’s hoping that you get to fill out the application online.
You get to avoid all the hassle that way. There aren’t many eligibility requirements either. It’s mostly just a matter of whether or not you find your state on the list. And the SSA says that they will be adding more states in the future. It makes you wonder why they have been able to add some states and not others, right?
As of right now, less than half the states are on the list, but you can bet that will change. Of course, you’re hoping your state is on the list and that you also never have to apply for a replacement card again. It happens, but you can possibly avoid it from happening again by keeping that paper card put away somewhere safe and sound. Chances are, you’re rarely going to have to show it, if at all.
While the online application for a replacement card is quick and convenient, don’t get in a hurry. Make sure you fill out all the information correctly so that the process goes smoothly. When you are done, your application will be reviewed, and your card will be mailed to you in 2-3 weeks time.
The SSA likes to give the timeframe in terms of business days, so that’s 10-14 business days for receiving your replacement card. You will likely go on about your business, and it will surprise you by showing up in the mail. Time flies, and you will soon have your replacement card in hand. While the online application makes getting a replacement card easy, take care of this one and keep it put away. You don’t want to have to go through this process again anytime soon.
Author: Ariana Smith
