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Social Security and Birth Certificates: What are the different types of social security cards? How to replace a lost social security card. How to change your name with the Social Security Administration. What benefits are available through the Social Security Administration? How to obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate. How to correct a birth certificate.
The Social Security Administration (SSA) and vital records offices handle essential personal documentation, influencing your ability to work, receive benefits, and prove identity.
The SSA issues three types of Social Security cards, all of which display your name and Social Security Number (SSN):
Unrestricted Card: Shows only your name and SSN. It allows you to work without restriction and is issued to U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents.
Restricted Card with Work Authorization: Shows your name and SSN with the note "VALID FOR WORK ONLY WITH DHS AUTHORIZATION." It is issued to noncitizens who are lawfully admitted to the U.S. on a temporary basis and have authorization to work from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Non-Work Card: Shows your name and SSN with the note "NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT." It is issued to noncitizens who are lawfully admitted to the U.S. without work authorization but need an SSN for a valid non-work reason (e.g., to receive federal benefits).
You can generally apply for a replacement card online, by mail, or in person. The SSA limits replacements to three per year and ten over a lifetime, with exceptions for legal name changes or certain status updates.
Online: Available if you are a U.S. citizen age 18 or older, have a U.S. mailing address, do not require a name change, and have a driver's license or state ID from a participating state. This is often the fastest method.
By Mail or In Person: You must complete Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) and submit original or certified copies of documents proving your identity and U.S. citizenship (or current immigration status).
To update your name on your Social Security card, you must first have your name legally changed (via marriage, divorce, or court order).
Complete Form SS-5.
Provide Proof of Legal Name Change: A document like a marriage license, divorce decree, or court order.
Provide Proof of Identity: An unexpired document (driver's license, passport, etc.).
Provide Proof of Citizenship/Immigration Status (if not previously established).