How to Change Your Social Security Number: Eligibility and Process

## Understanding Social Security Numbers and Change Eligibility A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit identifier issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary working residents. While primarily used for Social Security purposes, it has become a de facto national identification number for taxation and other purposes. The Social Security Administration (SSA) allows changes to SSNs only under specific circumstances: 1. **Identity Theft**: When your SSN is being misused and causing documented financial harm 2. **Harassment or Abuse**: In cases of domestic violence or life-threatening situations 3. **Religious or Cultural Objections**: When numbers in your SSN are considered offensive 4. **Sequential or Duplicate Numbers**: When multiple family members are assigned sequential SSNs or duplicates exist 5. **Proof of Another Person Using Your Number**: When someone else has been assigned or is using your SSN ## Required Documentation ### General Identity Documents * U.S. driver's license * State-issued ID card * U.S. passport * Birth certificate * Certificate of Naturalization ### Situation-Specific Evidence **For Identity Theft Cases:** * Police reports * Credit bureau reports showing fraudulent activity * Documentation of attempts to resolve issues * Financial records showing damages * Letters from creditors regarding fraudulent accounts **For Domestic Violence or Harassment Cases:** * Police reports * Restraining orders * Documentation from domestic violence shelters * Court records * Letters from social workers or counselors ## Application Process ### Step 1: Gather Required Documentation Collect all necessary identity documents and evidence supporting your reason for the change. ### Step 2: Complete the Application Fill out the [Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5)](https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/forms/ss-5.pdf). ### Step 3: Submit Your Application Visit your local Social Security office in person. Use the [SSA's office locator](https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp) to find the nearest location. > Note: Applications cannot be submitted online or by mail. In-person visits are mandatory, and there is no fee for this service. ### Step 4: Await Decision The typical processing timeline includes: * Initial review: 2-4 weeks * Additional documentation requests: 1-2 weeks per request * Final decision: 4-8 weeks after all documentation is received ## Important Considerations ### Impact on Records Changing your SSN can affect various aspects of your life: * Credit history * Employment records * Tax records * Medical records * Educational records * Property records ### Post-Approval Steps If approved for a new SSN, you must: 1. Notify all financial institutions 2. Update employment records 3. Contact credit bureaus 4. Update legal documents 5. Inform healthcare providers 6. Update insurance policies ## Alternatives to Consider Before pursuing a new SSN, explore these options: * Place a fraud alert on your credit reports * Request credit freezes with major credit bureaus * Work with the [Federal Trade Commission](https://www.identitytheft.gov/) to create an identity theft report * File complaints with relevant authorities For more information, visit the [Social Security Administration's official website](https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/).

How to Change Your Social Security Number: Eligibility and Process

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