When you can get a new Social Security number

You can request a new Social Security number if you are a victim of identity theft, domestic violence, or stalking, or if you have a religious or cultural objection to your current number. The Social Security Administration (SSA) also issues new numbers in cases of harassment or abuse. You cannot get a new number simply because you want one, or for credit reasons, or to escape debt.

The SSA takes these requests seriously because changing your number creates real problems — your work history gets split across two numbers, tax records separate, and benefits can become harder to track. For this reason, the agency requires documentation that shows a genuine need.

If you are fleeing domestic violence or stalking, you may also be able to work with local law enforcement or a domestic violence shelter to strengthen your case. Some states have specific programs that help survivors apply.

Key Takeaways

  • You must show documented evidence of identity theft, domestic violence, stalking, harassment, abuse, or a sincere religious or cultural objection to your current number.
  • The Social Security Administration requires you to appear in person at a local office with original identity documents and proof of the reason for your request.
  • Processing typically takes one to two weeks after you submit your application, though you receive a temporary number immediately.
  • Your old number does not disappear — employers and government agencies may still see records tied to it, so you will need to notify them of the change.
  • If you are in danger, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or a local shelter before visiting the SSA office.

What documents you need to bring

You must bring original documents or certified copies to prove your identity and citizenship. The SSA accepts a U.S. passport, a state-issued driver's license or ID card, a birth certificate, or a Consular Report of Birth Abroad. You need at least one document that shows your current legal name.

You also need proof of the reason you are requesting a new number. For identity theft, bring a police report or a letter from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) if you filed a report with them. For domestic violence, stalking, or harassment, bring a police report, a court order, a protective order, or a letter from a domestic violence shelter or law enforcement agency confirming the threat.

If your reason is religious or cultural, you may need to provide a letter from a religious leader or organization explaining the objection. The SSA will tell you what form of proof they accept when you call to schedule your appointment.

How to start the process

Call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) to schedule an appointment at your local Social Security office. You cannot request a new number online or by mail — you must appear in person. When you call, tell the representative that you need a new Social Security number and briefly explain why. They will tell you what documents to bring and when you can come in.

If you are in immediate danger, do not call from home or a phone your abuser can trace. Use a phone at a shelter, a friend's house, a library, or a domestic violence hotline. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) can help you plan the safest way to apply.

Bring all original documents to your appointment. The SSA office will review them, take your statement about why you need a new number, and complete the application form (Form SS-5) with you. You will receive a temporary number on the spot and a permanent one by mail within one to two weeks.

What happens after you get your new number

Your new Social Security number is yours to use going forward, but your old number does not vanish from government and employer records. You will need to notify your employer, your bank, your insurance companies, and the IRS that you have a new number. The IRS has a form (Form 8822-B) for notifying them of a name or number change.

Contact your state's tax agency as well if you file state income taxes. Notify your mortgage lender, credit card companies, and any other creditors. Ask each organization to update their records and to link your old number to your new one so your payment and work history stays connected.

If you have already filed taxes under your old number for the current year, you may need to file an amended return (Form 1040-X) using your new number. Talk to a tax professional or call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 for guidance on your specific situation.

Identity theft and the new number process

If someone has stolen your identity and opened accounts or taken out loans in your name, getting a new Social Security number is one step, but not the only one. You also need to file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov and with local police. Keep copies of both reports to show the SSA.

After you receive your new number, place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts. A credit freeze blocks access to your credit report entirely. Both are free and can stop new fraudulent accounts from being opened in your name.

Monitor your credit reports regularly for the next several years. You can order free reports from AnnualCreditReport.com once per year from each bureau. Look for accounts you did not open or charges you did not make.

Domestic violence, stalking, and safety planning

If you are leaving an abusive situation, changing your Social Security number can help protect you, but it works best as part of a larger safety plan. A domestic violence shelter or advocate can help you think through what information your abuser has access to and what steps make sense in your situation.

Some states have programs that help survivors apply for new numbers without going through the standard process, or that allow you to apply at a shelter instead of a public office. Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 to find out what resources exist in your state.

After you receive your new number, update it with your employer, your bank, and any government benefits you receive. Do not post your new number online or share it with people you do not trust. Keep it as private as your old number was.

What does not may have access to as a reason for a new number

The SSA will not issue a new number because you want to escape debt, improve your credit score, or start fresh financially. They will not issue one because you dislike your number or want a "luckier" one. They will not issue one if your only reason is that you are embarrassed by your number or want privacy from family members who know it.

If you are struggling with debt, there are other options: credit counseling, debt consolidation, or in some cases bankruptcy. These are handled through different agencies and do not require a new Social Security number. If you are concerned about privacy, you can limit who has access to your number without changing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You receive a temporary number at your appointment and your permanent number by mail within one to two weeks. You can use the temporary number to work or open accounts while you wait for the permanent one to arrive.

Will my old Social Security number still show up on background checks?

Yes. Your old number remains in government and employer records. Background checks may show both numbers. When you notify employers and creditors of your change, ask them to link the numbers so your work and payment history stays connected.

Can I change my Social Security number if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident to hold a Social Security number. If you are not yet a citizen, you may still be able to request a new number for the same reasons (identity theft, domestic violence, etc.), but bring your immigration documents to your appointment.

What if I do not have a police report for domestic violence?

A police report is the strongest proof, but the SSA also accepts court orders, protective orders, letters from domestic violence shelters, or statements from law enforcement. Call your local Social Security office to ask what documentation they will accept in your situation.

Do I need a lawyer to request a new Social Security number?

No. You can request a new number on your own by calling the SSA and appearing at your local office. If you are in a domestic violence situation, a shelter advocate or legal aid organization can help you prepare and may accompany you to your appointment.