The Social Security Administration just told people who are beneficiaries and want to renew their Social Security cards about a new change. Right now, you might be able to finish or at least begin your application on our website.
If you need to, you can also use our online booking tool to make an appointment at a nearby office. Because of this, a Social Security card is one of the most important things you need to get benefits for retirement, death, or disability. It is important to know about any changes that happen in this matter. Should you decide to replace this paper, please read through all the steps you need to take.
Steps beneficiaries will need to consider when replacing Social Security cards
To start the process, please go to the Social Security page. You’ll be asked a series of questions there to see if you can:
- Complete the application online.
- Begin the application process online, then bring any necessary documents to your local Social Security office or card center to complete it.
- Complete the application process in your local office.
If you need a new Social Security card, keep in mind that the process will be different for everyone. However, you may now be able to request one without having to go to the office.
Remember to use the Card Replacement Screener on the Replace Social Security card page to find the best way to get a new one. You can use your My Social Security account to get a new card in most states. It will save you time to start the application online, even if you have to go to an office to finish it.
How should beneficiaries replace their Social Security cards in an office?
If you start the application process online and then the government agency decides you need to come to their office, you may be able to use their new Online Self-Scheduling feature. With this function, you can make an online appointment to finish the application before you go to the SSA website. You can choose from the following options:
- Choose your language preference.
- Choose the most convenient office to obtain services.
- You can choose to receive communications via email or SMS.
- You can choose to get appointment reminders via email or text.
- Check for your appointment quickly and easily using your mobile device.
The SSA is encouraging beneficiaries to take advantage of their ‘My Social Security’ account
The Social Security Administration (SSA) encourages people to apply for Social Security cards online. In most states, people can use their personal “My Social Security” account to request new cards. With this new method, someone who needs a new or alternative Social Security card might be able to finish or at least start the application process on our website.
Customers could also use SSA’s online scheduling feature to make an appointment in a nearby spot if they needed to. The goal of this change is to make Social Security’s online services bigger so that people can have more freedom and control over their payments.
What is the difference between Social Security Numbers and Social Security Cards?
SSNs are different from Social Security cards because they are unique 9-digit numbers that are given to each person. This unique number keeps track of your work experience and how much money you’ve made over the years. The SSA says that they give out about 5.5 million new numbers every year. Since 1936, when the first numbers were given out, over 453 million have been given out.
In the United States, on the other hand, the Social Security card is a real key identification card. It has your name, date of birth, and Social Security number (SSN). The Social Security Administration gives you this card to show that you have a Social Security Number and to help verify your name. This means that the SSN is not a real record.
| Element | Social Security Number (SSN) | Social Security Card |
| Format | Unique nine-digit number | Physical card |
| Issued by | Social Security Administration | Social Security Administration |
| Contains | SSN | SSN, Name, Date of Birth |
| Purpose | Tracks earnings and work history | Verifies identity, proves SSN |