Ask Larry

Can You Apply For A New Social Security Number If Your Identity Has Been Compromised?

If your identity has been compromised can you apply for a new social security number; and if so, how do you go about getting a new number?

Hi,

Social Security will only issue a different Social Security number (SSN) to someone under rare and specific circumstances. Identity theft is one of those circumstances, but you'll still need to convince Social Security that you'll disadvantaged in some way if you aren't issued a new SSN.

If you want to apply for a new SSN you'll need to do so in person at a Social Security office. You'll also need to provide Social Security with an explanation of why a new SSN is necessary, and you'll need to show Social Security proof of your age, citizenship and identity (https://faq.ssa.gov/en-US/Topic/article/KA-02220).

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Oct 23 2019 - 4:33pm
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