In order to obtain another Social Security card, you will need to go to your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office and apply for a replacement card. You will have to complete Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. You can download Form SS-5 on the SSA website at www.ssa.gov and complete it before going to the office.
In order to get a replacement card, you will need to provide original documentation proving your identity and citizenship. Documents that will satisfy the identity and citizenship requirements include your current driver's license or state-issued identification card, birth certificate and passport.
You are only allowed to receive three replacement Social Security cards within a year period and 10 within your entire lifetime, according to the SSA. There are exceptions to this rule, such as having your name legally changed if you were to get married.
In an effort to prevent identity fraud, if your card is lost or stolen, you should contact the three major credit reporting bureaus (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) to have identity theft monitoring placed on your report. The contact number for Equifax is (800) 525-6285; Experian is (888) 397-3742; and TransUnion is (800) 680-7289. This will ensure that no unauthorized accounts are opened using your Social Security number.
To prevent your Social Security card from being stolen or lost, try not to carry it with you. Keep your Social Security card stored away and only take it out when you need it, such as for a doctor's visit or when applying for a job.