How do I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number?

Asked by: Ms. Lyda Hagenes IV  |  Last update: February 9, 2022
Score: 4.3/5 (59 votes)

To check to see if someone is using your SSN, consider checking your credit report. You can do this online through AnnualCreditReport.com, the only authorized website for free credit reports. You can also use the Annual Credit Report phone number (1-877-322-8228) to request your credit report.

How do you check if someone has used my identity?

at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or go to: www.identitytheft.gov/ To order a copy of your Social Security Administration earnings and benefits statement, or to check whether someone has used your Social Security number to get a job or to avoid paying taxes, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/statement/.

Will I be notified if someone uses my SSN?

Check Your Credit Report

The Social Security Administration can tell you if someone is working on your SSN and the IRS can tell you if someone is filing taxes on it, but only your credit agencies can tell you if someone is using your SSN to acquire and use credit in your name.

How do you put an alert on your Social Security number?

How to put a flag on your social security number or credit report
  1. Contact one of the three credit reporting agencies (Transunion, Equifax, or Experian). ...
  2. After a few days, check with the other two credit bureaus to verify that they've received the fraud alert as well.

How do you put an alert on your Social Security number for free?

Fraud alerts are free. Contact one of the three nationwide credit bureaus – Equifax, Experian or TransUnion – to request a fraud alert, and that bureau will notify the other two.

How to look up your Social Security statement online

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What are the first signs of identity theft?

9 warning signs of identity theft
  • Your bank statement doesn't look right or your checks bounce. ...
  • You see unfamiliar and unauthorized activity on your credit card or credit report. ...
  • Your bills are missing or you receive unfamiliar bills. ...
  • Your cellphone or another utility loses service.

How do I know if I'm a victim of identity theft?

Other things that could be warning signs that your identity has been stolen include: Statements or bills for accounts you never opened arriving in the mail. Statements or bills for legitimate accounts not showing up. ... Unauthorized authentication messages for accounts you don't recognize.

How can I track someone who stole my identity?

Who Stole Your Social Security Number or Identity? 4 Steps to Find Out Who Did It
  1. Step 1: Order Copies of All Three Credit Reports. ...
  2. Step 2: File an ID Theft Complaint with the FTC. ...
  3. Step 3: File a Police Report Documenting Your Identity Theft. ...
  4. Step 4: Write a Letter Requesting the Records From All Companies Involved.

What happens if someone gets your SSN?

Your Social Security number is also used to file your taxes in most cases. Someone who has your SSN can file a fraudulent tax return in your name to be able to claim a refund or stimulus money. You often don't know that a fraudulent tax return has been filed until you go to file your own.

How much is your Social Security number worth?

For people with high credit scores, a Social Security number, birth date, and full name can sell for $60 to $80 on the digital black market, security firm Flashpoint says.

What do you do if someone steals your SSN?

If your Social Security card or number (SSN) is lost or stolen, you should immediately contact your local police department and the Social Security Administration (call toll-free 1-800-772-1213) to let them know about the incident.

How can I find out if someone is using my address?

Here are some signs you should look out for that may suggest someone is diverting your mail.
  1. You receive a move validation letter. ...
  2. You stop receiving mail. ...
  3. The billing address for your credit card changes. ...
  4. You get notified that an account has been opened in your name. ...
  5. Go paperless with the important stuff.