- You can change your Social Security number, but you must have a valid reason and proper documentation for proof.
- Qualifying reasons for a new SSN include repeated identity theft attempts or harassment and abuse.
- Changing your Social Security number may result in issues with record updates and errors in your credit report.
Understanding Social Security numbers
What is a Social Security Number?
A Social Security number (SSN) allows the government and other entities to track personal information like employment history, tax contributions, and Social Security benefits — so it's no wonder why changing your SSN is discouraged under most circumstances.
However, getting a new SSN isn't impossible. The process is only open to people in very specific situations. See if you qualify for a new Social Security number and how to apply for one.
Eligibility criteria for changing your Social Security number
Unlike your phone number, you can't change your Social Security number at the drop of a hat. You'll need to request a change from the SSA with a legitimate reason and proof to substantiate your request.
Qualifying reasons for a new Social Security number
The SSA outlines legitimate reasons to request a new Social Security number. These are:
- Identity theft: The SSA may allow you to change your SSN if you're experiencing ongoing problems related to identity theft, but you must have attempted to resolve the issue before requesting a new SSN. Many of the best identity theft protection services include fraud resolution among their list of features.
- Harassment or abuse: If someone is using your identity to control your financial activity, restrict your access to money, or prevent you from leaving a relationship, you may be able to get a new SSN.
- Sequential numbers: If sequential SSNs assigned to family members are causing confusion or complications, such as errors on your credit report, you may be able to request a new SSN.
- Multiple people using the same number: If multiple people were mistakenly assigned the same SSN, you can request an SSN change.
- Religious or cultural objections: You may be able to change your SSN if you have religious or cultural objections to the particular number you received. You'll need to provide documentation from the religious group you belong to that affirms your objection.
Steps to change your Social Security number
If your reason for getting a new SSN lines up with one of the qualifying situations, you'll need to substantiate your reason with supporting documentation.
"To apply for a new SSN, you must visit a Social Security office in person," says Nilsa Henriquez, a public affairs specialist at the Social Security Administration. "We'll help you complete a statement explaining why you need a new number and an application for a new SSN."
Gather the necessary documentation
The SSA requires you to provide specific documentation to prove your citizenship or immigration status and your reason for seeking a new SSN. "All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. We can't accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents," says Henriquez.
| Documents for US citizens | Documents for Non-US citizens |
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Complete a Social Security card application
You must fill out the Application for a Social Security Card form or Form SS-5 to apply for a new Social Security number. You can obtain the form on the SSA website or by visiting your local SSA office. You must provide your name, date of birth, citizenship status, and information about your parents or spouse.
You will need to set up an appointment with your local Social Security Administration office, which you can find using the Social Security Office Locator.
Impact of changing your Social Security number
Credit and financial records
A Social Security number change doesn't erase your financial history. For instance, a new SSN doesn't absolve you of any debts you have, rectify your credit history, or repair a bad credit score.
Additionally, you may face several challenges after you change your SSN.
Changing your SSN may cause inaccuracies in your credit report, as your information may not transfer completely to your new SSN. As a result, your credit report may reflect an incomplete credit history, which can result in a lower credit score. This may cause lenders to deny applications for new credit.
You can dispute these credit reporting issues with the credit bureaus — Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion — and get these inaccuracies fixed.
Government benefits, records, and potential employers
"Applying for a new SSN is a big decision. Your ability to interact with federal and state agencies, employers, and others may be affected," says Henriquez. Also, you may need to revise your SSN with federal institutions after you change your SSN to access certain government benefits, taxes, or other financial records. This process can be time-consuming and complex.
If you don't want to commit to changing your SSN or do not qualify for a change, you can consider blocking your Social Security number, which will restrict all access to your SSN, even your own. You can do this by contacting the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 or its teletypewriter number at 1-800-325-0778.
Frequently asked questions about getting a new Social Security number
Getting a new Social Security number can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the reason for the change and the documentation you provide.
You cannot change your Social Security number because you have bad credit. That alone is not a valid reason. Identity theft must be proven.
Yes, your old Social Security number will be linked to your new one. The Social Security Administration will cross-reference your new number with your old one to maintain your records and ensure their accuracy.
