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:
- Identity Theft: When your SSN is being misused and causing documented financial harm
- Harassment or Abuse: In cases of domestic violence or life-threatening situations
- Religious or Cultural Objections: When numbers in your SSN are considered offensive
- Sequential or Duplicate Numbers: When multiple family members are assigned sequential SSNs or duplicates exist
- 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).
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Visit your local Social Security office in person. Use the SSA's office locator 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:
- Notify all financial institutions
- Update employment records
- Contact credit bureaus
- Update legal documents
- Inform healthcare providers
- 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 to create an identity theft report
- File complaints with relevant authorities
For more information, visit the Social Security Administration's official website.