The Social Security Administration said most people who lose or misplace their Social Security card will not need a replacement, because employers, organizations, financial institutions and agencies usually need the number rather than the physical card.
If a replacement card is needed, the agency said requesting one online is the fastest, safest and most convenient way to do it.
The guidance was published in a Social Security Matters blog post dated August 28, 2026. The agency directed readers to its blog for more information.
The SSA also encouraged people to go digital by creating a personal my Social Security account to access their benefits.