How To Get a New Social Security Number

When the Social Security Administration will issue you a new number

The Social Security Administration (SSA) will issue a new Social Security number only in specific circumstances. You cannot request one simply because you want a different number or because you are concerned about identity theft. The SSA treats Social Security numbers as permanent identifiers and changes them rarely.

The main reasons the SSA will issue a new number are: you are a victim of identity theft or fraud and can document it; you are experiencing harassment, abuse, or stalking and can show the connection to your current number; you have religious or cultural objections to your number; or you are transgender and your current number is associated with a name or gender marker that no longer reflects your identity. Each of these requires specific documentation and proof.

Key Takeaways

The SSA issues new Social Security numbers only for identity theft, documented abuse, religious objection, or gender transition — not for privacy concerns or personal preference.
You must file Form SS-5 in person at a Social Security office and bring original or certified documents proving your identity and the reason for the change.
For identity theft, you need a police report or FTC Identity Theft Report; for abuse, you need documentation from law enforcement, a court, or a shelter.
Processing takes several weeks, and you will receive your new number by mail; you must then update your number with your employer, bank, and other institutions.
A new number does not erase your old credit history or records — creditors and agencies may still see both numbers linked to you.

Identity theft: what documentation you need

If you are a victim of identity theft, you must prove it to the SSA. The strongest proof is a police report filed with your local police department that names you as the victim and describes the theft. If your local police will not file a report, you can file an Identity Theft Report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov. The FTC report is free and creates an official record that the SSA will accept.

Bring either the police report or the FTC Identity Theft Report with you when you file Form SS-5 at your local Social Security office. You will also need to bring proof of identity (a driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of citizenship (a birth certificate or passport), and proof of age. The SSA will not issue a new number based on your word alone that theft occurred — the documentation is required.

Abuse or harassment: documentation from authorities or shelters

If you are experiencing abuse, harassment, or stalking and believe your Social Security number is being used against you, the SSA may issue a new one. You must show that the abuse or harassment is connected to your number — for example, that the person harassing you has used your number to open accounts, obtain credit, or locate you.

Acceptable documentation includes a police report naming you as the victim; a court order such as a restraining order or protective order; or a letter from a domestic violence shelter, victim advocate, or law enforcement officer confirming that you are receiving services or protection related to abuse. Bring this documentation with you to your Social Security office along with your identity, citizenship, and age documents.

Religious or cultural objection to your number

Some people object to their Social Security number on religious or cultural grounds. The SSA will consider this reason, but you must explain the objection clearly and provide documentation of your religious or cultural beliefs if possible. This might include a letter from a religious leader, a statement of faith, or other evidence that the objection is sincere and based on established belief.

This category is less commonly used than identity theft or abuse, and the SSA has discretion in deciding whether to grant the request. Bring your explanation in writing along with any supporting documents, your identity and citizenship proof, and Form SS-5 when you visit your local Social Security office.

Gender transition: updating your name and number

If you are transgender and your Social Security number is associated with a name or gender marker that no longer reflects your identity, you can request a new number as part of updating your Social Security record. You do not have to change your number — you can update your name and gender marker while keeping the same number — but many people choose to do both.

To change your name and gender marker, you will need a court order changing your name (if you have one) or an amended birth certificate showing your correct name and gender. Some states allow you to change your gender marker without a court order; check your state's vital records office for the current rules. Bring these documents to your Social Security office along with Form SS-5 if you are also requesting a new number.

The application process: Form SS-5 and what to bring

You must apply for a new Social Security number in person at your local Social Security office. You cannot apply by mail or online. Download Form SS-5 (Application for a Social Security Card) from the SSA website or pick one up at the office. Fill it out before you go, or you can complete it at the office with help from staff.

Bring original documents or certified copies. The SSA requires proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID), proof of citizenship (birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers), and proof of age (usually your birth certificate). You will also bring the documentation supporting your reason for the change: the police report or FTC Identity Theft Report, the court order or shelter letter, the religious objection statement, or the amended birth certificate or court order for name change.

Arrive early, as Social Security offices often have long wait times. You may be able to make an appointment by calling 1-800-772-1213 or visiting your local office in advance. Processing typically takes two to four weeks, and the SSA will mail your new Social Security card to the address on file.

What happens after you receive your new number

Once you receive your new Social Security card, you must update your number with your employer, your bank, your insurance companies, and any other institution that has your old number on file. Contact your employer's human resources or payroll department first, as they need the new number for tax withholding and wage reporting.

Update your bank and credit card companies, your mortgage lender or landlord, the IRS (by filing Form SS-5 with your tax return or calling 1-800-829-1040), and the Social Security Administration itself if you need to report the change for any reason. Keep a record of which institutions you have notified and when.

A new Social Security number does not erase your credit history or past records. Credit bureaus and government agencies may still link your old number to your new one in their systems. Your old number will remain in Social Security records as a previous number associated with your account. This means creditors may still see accounts opened under your old number, and the SSA will still have a record of your earnings under both numbers for retirement benefit purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a new Social Security number if I am worried about identity theft but have not been a victim yet?

No. The SSA issues new numbers only to people who have already experienced identity theft and can document it with a police report or FTC Identity Theft Report. Concern about future theft is not a reason for a new number. If you are worried about your number being compromised, monitor your credit report and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus.

Will a new Social Security number fix my credit score or remove negative marks?

No. A new number does not erase your credit history. Credit bureaus link your old and new numbers together, so negative marks, late payments, and accounts opened fraudulently under your old number will still appear on your credit report. You will need to dispute fraudulent accounts separately with the credit bureaus and the creditors involved.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You will need some form of proof of citizenship and identity to get a new Social Security number. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can request one from your state's vital records office. If you do not have a passport or driver's license, you can obtain a state ID card from your state's motor vehicles department. The SSA website lists all acceptable documents; call 1-800-772-1213 to ask which documents you can use in your situation.

How long does it take to get a new Social Security number?

Processing typically takes two to four weeks from the date you file Form SS-5 at your local Social Security office. The SSA will mail your new card to your address on file. During this time, you can continue using your old number for work and other purposes until the new card arrives.

Do I have to change my name if I get a new Social Security number?

No. You can get a new number without changing your name. However, if your reason for the new number is related to your name — such as gender transition or escaping abuse — you may want to change your name at the same time. You can do one, the other, or both. Discuss your options with the Social Security representative when you file.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.