Receiving a new number doesn't erase the old one, which will remain on file at government agencies and some businesses.
Changing your SSN can also make your life more complicated. It can be harder to get a passport, receive financial aid, and build your credit history. Some lenders may not want to grant you credit or loans due to an absence of credit history.
In fact, there are drawbacks to changing your number. It could result in losing your credit history, your academic records, and your professional degrees.
You can change your Social Security number, but you must have a valid reason and proper documentation for proof. Qualifying reasons for a new SSN include repeated identity theft attempts or harassment and abuse.
Should you get a new SSN? If you've done all you can to fix the problems resulting from misuse of your SSN, and someone is still using your number, we may assign you a new number. You can't get a new SSN: If your SSN card is lost or stolen, but there's no evidence that someone is using your number.
There is no charge for an SSN and card. If someone wants to charge you for getting a number or card, please remember that these services are free.
When issuing a new SSN, the Social Security Administration (SSA) links your old number to your new one so you'll still be associated with all wages earned. As long as you let lenders know that you've changed your number, credit bureaus will be able to connect your credit history to your new SSN.
Order your Social Security Statement.
You can create an account at ssa.gov/myaccount to view your statement online. Alternatively, you can print, complete, and send Form SSA-7004 to submit your request by mail. However, be aware that receiving your information this way can take 4–6 weeks.
If you forgot username and/or password, you may click "Forgot Username" or "Forgot Password" in the login screen here: https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/ If you still have trouble, or if your account has been locked, you may call 800_772_1213 between 8am and 7pm local time and say "Help Desk" at the voice prompt.
You simply won't have a score at all. That's because your credit scores aren't calculated until a lender or another entity requests them to determine your creditworthiness.
You may receive no more than three replacement social security number cards in a year and ten replacement social security number cards per lifetime. We may allow for reasonable exceptions to these limits on a case-by-case basis in compelling circumstances.
If you know your Social Security information has been compromised, you can request to Block Electronic Access. This is done by calling our National 800 number (Toll Free 1-800-772-1213 or at our TTY number at 1-800-325-0778).
Have you heard about the Social Security $16,728 yearly bonus? There's really no “bonus” that retirees can collect. The Social Security Administration (SSA) uses a specific formula based on your lifetime earnings to determine your benefit amount.
Only change your Social Security number if it's necessary to do so, as it can affect your ability to interact with financial, medical and employment agencies. Once you've changed your number, notify important agencies of the change. These may include: The IRS.
In 2025, all beneficiaries will see a 2.5% increase to their Social Security benefit checks, thanks to an annual cost-of-living adjustment. Of note, the 2024 increase was 3.2%. This year's COLA is the lowest increase beneficiaries have seen since a 1.3% increase in 2021, reflecting a decrease in the pace of inflation.
There is NO COST to place or lift a security freeze. For more information, see detailed instructions entitled “Placing a Security Freeze on Your Credit Report to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft” below. 5. Review your credit reports carefully.
Tax identity theft occurs when someone uses your compromised information to file a tax return in your name. They fudge the numbers, enter an unrelated refund dispersal option like a prepaid debit card, and make off with your money before you ever know that anything has gone wrong.
Regularly check your credit report for anything unusual. Free credit reports are available online at AnnualCreditReport.com. Contact the IRS to prevent someone else from using your Social Security number to file a tax return to receive your refund. Visit Identity Theft Central or call 1-800-908-4490.
You'll need to provide sufficient proof that your request for a new Social Security number is warranted by providing "current, credible, third-party evidence documenting the reasons for needing a new number."
When your SSN and other personal information is leaked on the Dark Web, cybercriminals may use those details to steal your identity. They could go as far as getting a job in your name. Commit tax fraud. Scammers can use your SSN to file fraudulent tax returns and commit other tax crimes.
Your SSN typically stays with you for life. However, if you are a victim of identity theft, you may be issued a new SSN to protect your future privacy.
Either way, you'll receive your Social Security card in the mail within 14 days after your application is completed.
There are millions of people who have SSNs, and some people think it is unique, but it is not, your number can match several people.