You can change your Social Security address online, by phone, or in person at a local office

The fastest way is through your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. If you have created an account, you can log in and update your mailing address yourself in minutes. If you do not have an account yet, you can create one using your email, a password, and either your Social Security number plus date of birth, or your username and password from another government site like Login.gov.

If you prefer not to use the website, you can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and speak to a representative who will update your address over the phone. You will need to provide your Social Security number and answer security questions to verify your identity. You can also visit your local Social Security office in person with a photo ID and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.

Key Takeaways

  • Creating a my Social Security account at ssa.gov lets you change your address online without waiting on hold or visiting an office.
  • Phone updates take about 10 minutes and require your Social Security number and answers to security questions.
  • In-person updates at a local office require a photo ID and a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or rental agreement.
  • Social Security uses your address to mail benefit checks, tax forms, and important notices, so updating it prevents mail from going to the wrong place.

Creating a my Social Security account to update online

Go to ssa.gov and look for the "my Social Security" link on the homepage. Click "Create an account" and enter your email address. Social Security will send you a verification link — check your email and click it within 24 hours.

Next, you will create a password and answer security questions. Social Security will then ask you to verify your identity using one of two methods: enter your Social Security number and date of birth, or use an existing Login.gov account. Once you are verified and logged in, click on your profile or settings (the exact location varies slightly, but is usually in the upper right corner), find the address field, and type in your new address. Save your changes. The update takes effect immediately in Social Security's system, though mail may take a few days to reflect the change.

Updating your address by phone

Call 1-800-772-1213 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Have your Social Security number ready. A representative will ask you to confirm your identity by answering questions about your personal history — they may ask about previous addresses, employers, or family members.

Once verified, tell the representative your new address and spell out the street name if it is unusual. Ask them to repeat it back to you to make sure it was entered correctly. The representative will confirm the change before you hang up. The update usually appears in Social Security's system within one business day.

Updating your address in person at a Social Security office

Find your local office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213 to get the address and hours. Bring a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and a document showing your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

Walk in during business hours or request an appointment online if your local office offers it. Tell the representative you need to update your mailing address. They will verify your identity, confirm your new address, and update it on the spot. The change takes effect immediately.

What happens after you change your address

Social Security will use your new address to mail benefit checks (if you receive them by mail), tax forms like the SSA-1099, and notices about your account. If you are receiving benefits, the change does not affect your payment amount or schedule — it only changes where mail is sent.

If you are expecting a check or form at your old address, contact Social Security to ask whether it has already been mailed. They can sometimes intercept mail or resend it to your new address. If you moved and did not update your address, mail may be returned to Social Security as undeliverable, which can delay important notices.

Changing your address if you do not have a my Social Security account

You do not need an account to change your address — phone and in-person updates work without one. However, creating an account takes about 10 minutes and gives you access to your earnings record, benefit estimates, and the ability to make future changes without calling or visiting an office.

If you have trouble creating an account online, call 1-800-772-1213 and a representative can help you set one up or update your address directly over the phone. There is no cost to either method.

Updating your address if you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

If you receive SSI rather than regular Social Security benefits, the process is the same — you can use my Social Security, call, or visit an office. However, SSI is more sensitive to address changes because it affects your living situation and benefit amount. Update your address as soon as you move to avoid delays or overpayments.

If you are in a shelter, transitional housing, or do not have a permanent address, tell Social Security your situation when you update. They can note your status in the system and may be able to hold mail or use an alternative contact method.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Social Security to update my address?

Online updates through my Social Security take effect immediately in their system. Phone and in-person updates usually appear within one business day. Mail sent to your old address may take several days to be returned or forwarded, so update as soon as you move.

What if I moved and did not update my address right away?

Contact Social Security as soon as you remember. They can update your address and may be able to intercept mail that has already been sent. If you missed important notices, they can resend them to your new address or read the information to you over the phone.

Can I change my address for only part of my Social Security account?

No. Your mailing address is used for all Social Security mail related to your account — benefits, tax forms, and notices. You cannot separate them. If you need mail sent to different places, contact Social Security to discuss your situation.

Do I need to update my address with Medicare if I change my Social Security address?

Social Security and Medicare are separate systems. Changing your Social Security address does not automatically update Medicare. Contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE or update your address at Medicare.gov if you have Medicare coverage.