Do I really need a replacement Social Security card after 40 years without one?

You honestly don't need the physical card for most things. I applied for retirement benefits last year without needing to show my actual card - just needed to know my SS number. The only time I've needed the physical card in recent years was when changing jobs (I-9 verification), getting a Real ID driver's license, and opening a new bank account. If you aren't planning to do any of those things, you might be fine without it.

you DEF need ur card!!! my sister didnt have hers when she applied for SS last year and they made her get a new 1 before they wud process her claim. took extra 6 weeks!

I went ahead and got a replacement even though I still knew my number. Process wasn't too bad - did it all online at the SSA website. Took about 2 weeks to arrive. Figured better to have it than need it someday and not have it.

I worked for SSA for 31 years before retiring, and I can tell you that most people don't need the physical card. You only need to know your number for most purposes. However, there are specific situations where having the physical card is helpful: 1. Starting a new job (I-9 verification) 2. Getting a REAL ID driver's license 3. Certain banking transactions 4. Some government services For Social Security retirement benefits, Medicare enrollment, etc., you don't need to present the physical card at all. The system is all electronic now and tied to your SSN. If you do decide to get a replacement, most people can do it online at ssa.gov if their state participates. Otherwise, you'll need to complete Form SS-5 and either mail it or take it to your local SSA office with the required documentation (usually a driver's license or passport).

I lost mine years ago too and finally needed it when I started collecting my retirement benefits. Tried calling the SSA to make an appointment to get a replacement card and it was IMPOSSIBLE to get through!!! Busy signals, disconnects, hours on hold. So frustrating!!! I eventually found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me connected to an actual SSA agent in about 20 minutes instead of waiting for hours. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/Z-BRbJw3puU Turns out I didn't actually need the card itself for my benefits (just needed to know my number), but I got the replacement anyway for peace of mind.

my friend says they MAKE u show the real card for medicare!! not just know the #

For what it's worth, I find it's good to have the card stored securely somewhere, even if you rarely need it. I keep mine in a fire-safe box along with other important documents like birth certificates and passports. That way I don't have to worry about carrying it around (which you shouldn't do anyway due to identity theft risks) but can access it on the rare occasions it's needed.

Thanks everyone for the helpful responses! Sounds like for my situation (already retired, not changing jobs, have my Real ID license), I probably don't need to rush to get a replacement. I'll keep it on my to-do list for eventually, but won't stress about it for now. Appreciate all the insights!