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How To Change Social Security Number

Update Your Social Security Number

Your social security number is actually an account number.

Is your Social Security number missing or incorrect? Log into One.IU and go to SSN/educational tax credit verification. You can add or update your SSN there.

If youre unable to change your SSN, we can help. After using the Central Authentication Service to authenticate your record, please upload a scan or photo of your Social Security card through our secure contact form. Under Topic, choose Student Records, and then Update Name or Profile. If you cant use CAS, we ask that the documents you send be notarized.

Changes generally occur within a day after we receive your request, and will appear on your official academic record.

Note: If youre a student employee, you must contact Financial Management Services at 812-855-0375 to update your SSN.

Corrected Card For A Foreign Born Us Citizen Child

If you legally change your child’s name because of adoption, court order or any other reason, you need to tell Social Security so that your child can get a corrected card. If your child is working, also tell your child’s employer. If you do not tell us when your child’s name changes, it may:

  • Delay your tax refund or your child’s refund and
  • Prevent your child’s wages from being posted correctly to your child’s Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your child’s future Social Security benefits.

Important

You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies. All documents must be current . We cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.

Are You Eligible For A New Social Security Number

Unfortunately, just because someone has stolen or is using your SSN, doesnât always mean you can get a new one.

The SSA is cautious about changing your number as it can cause complications with your credit report and earnings history, and even make it more difficult to apply for passports, loans, and IDs.

The five situations where you can apply for a new SSN include:

  • Ongoing financial and identity fraud due to identity theft. Unfortunately, just being the victim of any of the types of identity theft isnât enough. You need to be able to prove that youâre dealing with ongoing fraud and have exhausted all other options. For example, if a family member is continually using your identity to open new credit cards and lines of credit.
  • Threat of personal harm, such as from harassment, stalking, or domestic violence. If someone is using your SSN to track where you work and live and wants to do you harm, you can change it. Again, youâll need to show proof of your situation like police reports.
  • Religious or cultural objections to the numbers. If a sequence of numbers in your SSN goes against your core beliefs, you may be able to request a change.
  • Someone else already has your SSN. In rare cases, the SSA might accidentally assign the same SSN to multiple people.
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    What Documents Do I Need To Prove My Identity

    Social Security will ask to see your current U.S. immigration documents. Acceptable documents include:

    • I-551 Permanent Resident Card
    • I-94 Arrival/Departure Record with unexpired foreign passport, or admission stamp in the unexpired foreign passport or
    • I-766 Employment Authorization Document, from DHS.

    Important

    You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies. All documents must be current . We cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.

    We may use one document for two purposes. For example, we may use your U.S. passport as proof of both citizenship and identity.

    How To Change Your Social Security Number If Youre A Victim Of Identity Theft

    how to change your social security number

    If you believe that your Social Security number has been compromised, you can take steps to change it. The Social Security Administration will only assign you a new number if you can provide evidence that someone is using your current number to commit fraud.

    To request a new Social Security number, youll need to fill out an application and submit proof of identity, proof of U.S. citizenship or legal resident status, and evidence that someone is using your current SSN fraudulently. You can find the application online or at your local SSA office.

    Once your application is approved, the SSA will issue you a new SSN card with your new number. They will also notify the IRS, credit reporting agencies, and any other organizations that have records of your old number so they can update their systems.

    Its important to note that changing your Social Security number is a major life event and should not be taken lightly. Once you have a new number, all of your records will be updated to reflect the change. This can cause disruptions in your life, so be sure to weigh all the pros and cons before making a decision.

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    The Bottom Line: Protect Your Social Security Number

    While there are clear benefits to changing your social security number, itâs often seen as a last resort for extreme situations.

    Once you change your SSN â or to protect your current one â you should follow these five steps to ensure itâs not being misused by criminals or identity thieves.

  • Donât give out your SSN automatically. Many businesses ask for your SSN, but few actually need it. Try giving a different identification card instead. For example, your driver’s license, student ID, U.S. passport, health insurance card, or even utility bill. If they insist, ask why they want it and how they will protect it.
  • Don’t carry your Social Security card in your wallet or purse. Memorize the number and leave it at home. Don’t input your SSN into your smartphone, laptop, or other devices. Don’t use your SSN as your password and don’t send it to anyone via an email or message.
  • Destroy original documents, copies, and mail with personal details once you no longer need them. You should also avoid leaving mail in your mailbox for extended periods. If youâre going to be away, ask someone to pick up your mail or consider a mail-forwarding service.
  • Never provide your SSN to someone you donât know. This is especially important for anyone who requests it over the phone or on the internet. The same applies to your family members’ SSNs. Don’t give any SSN to anyone unless you are certain they have a valid reason to have it and a right to ask.
  • The Process Of Changing Your Social Security Number

    The Social Security Administration issues Social Security numbers to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain temporary residents. You can use your SSN for tax reporting and record-keeping purposes, and to apply for credit, jobs, and government benefits.

    If you have a valid reason for changing your SSN, you can do so by requesting a new number from the SSA. The agency will only approve your request if it finds that you have a legitimate reason for needing a new number, such as if youve been the victim of identity theft or harassment.

    Heres what you need to do to change your SSN:

    1. Collect the necessary documents. Youll need to provide proof of identity, evidence of U.S. citizenship or legal alien status, and proof of your current SSN.

    2. Fill out an application form. You can get this form from your local SSA office or by visiting the agencys website at www.ssa.gov .

    3. Submit your application along with the required documentation to your local SSA office or mail it to: Social Security AdministrationOffice of Earnings Operations

    PO Box 17768 Baltimore MD 21235-7768

    Once your request has been processed, the SSA will send you a new SSN card with your new number.

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    What Is Appropriate Clinical Treatment For Gender Transition

    Peoples gender transition needs vary, and treatment options are decided between individuals and health care professionals on a case-by-case basis. The phrase appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition is meant to capture a range of treatments that may be appropriate, in each individual case, to facilitate gender transition. Clinical treatment methods are outlined in the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standards of Care, and treatment can include psychotherapy, changes in gender expression and role, hormone therapy, or surgery, or any combination thereof. No specific treatment is required, and details of your treatment need not be provided. In fact, NCTE encourages you and your provider to only state in the letter that you have had appropriate clinical treatment for gender transition. Details about surgery, hormone treatment, or other treatments are unnecessary and not helpful.

    How To Request A Social Security Card Replacement

    How Do You Replace Your Social Security Card?

    If all you need is a replacement Social Security card, with no other changes, you can simply request a new card online at the Social Security website. You’ll need to be a U.S. citizen age 18 or older with a U.S. mailing address and will have to supply information from a drivers license or state-issued identification card from a participating state or the District of Columbia.

    Currently, every state but Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oklahoma, and West Virginia participates in this program. If you’re from Alaska, Delaware, and Wisconsin, note that Social Security will only accept a driver’s license.

    This service is not yet available to people whose drivers license or identification card was issued by a U.S. territory, such as Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands.

    Note that a new Social Security card can also be requested by filling out the application and returning it via mail to dropping it off at the local Social Security Administration office. Or applicants can go to the local Social Security Administration office and fill out an application there.

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    Corrected Card For A Us Born Child

    If you legally change your child’s name because of adoption, court order or any other reason, you need to tell Social Security so that you can get a corrected card. If your child is working, also tell your child’s employer. If you do not tell us when your child’s name changes, it may:

    • Delay your tax refund or your child’s refund and
    • Prevent your child’s wages from being posted correctly to your child’s Social Security record, which may lower the amount of your child’s future Social Security benefits.

    Important

    You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies. All documents must be current . We cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.

    Lost Your Social Security Card Need To Make Changes Here’s How

    InvestopediaForbes AdvisorThe Motley Fool, CredibleInsider

    Many people find they need to change or correct their Social Security information when they get married or divorced and change their names. Or they need a replacement Social Security card when they realize theyve lost their original one or it’s been stolen. Here is how to deal with either of those situations.

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    The Benefits Of Changing Your Social Security Number

    There are many benefits to changing your Social Security number. A new Social Security number can help you avoid many of the problems associated with a bad credit history. It can also help you avoid identity theft and fraud. If you have been the victim of crime, changing your Social Security number can also help you start over again.

    No Match On The Social Security Number

    Social Security Change of Address

    You must resolve any problems with the match before disbursing aid. If the SSN is not found in the SSA database, the students application will be rejected. The student will also receive a comment that instructs her to correct her SSN or contact the SSA if she believes the number reported is correct. If it is wrong on the application, the student will have to correct it with the CPS and get a successful match result before she can receive aid.

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    Replacement Card For A Noncitizen Child

    You can replace your child’s Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. You are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during a lifetime. Legal name changes and other exceptions do not count toward these limits. For example, changes in immigration status that require card updates may not count toward these limits. Also, you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.

    In general, only noncitizens who have permission to work from the Department of Homeland Security can apply for a Social Security number. If your child does not have permission to work but needs a Social Security number for other purposes, see “If your child does not have permission to work” for further information.

    Important

    You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies. All documents must be current . We cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.

    What Evidence Do You Need To Provide When Applying For A New Ssn

    When you go to change your SSN, bring along:

    • A filled-out Form SS-5. This is the same form that you, your parents, or your legal guardians likely filled out to apply for your original number and Social Security card.
    • A credible statement and supporting third-party documentation that explains why you need a new number:â
    • In the case of abuse or harassment: Acceptable documents include medical records of injuries, court orders, divorce decrees, police reports, and other related legal documents. You may also want to attach letters from shelters, counselors, friends, or family members with direct knowledge of the situation.â
    • In the case of identity theft: Provide proof of identity and evidence that your number is being used for fraudulent transactions. Youâll also need to show that you are suffering ongoing harm as a result. For example, a lowered credit rating or loan denial. Finally, you’ll need proof that you’ve exhausted all other means to solve the problem. â
    • For religious or cultural objections: Get written documentation from the group explaining the issue and showing your relationship to them.
    • Documentation of your U.S. citizenship, U.S. birth certificate, or legal residency, age, identity, and current SSN. The SSA has a document checklist you can follow. You’ll also need to provide supporting documentation if you have undergone a legal name change. In fact, if you are getting a new name, make sure to do that first.

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    Can I Change My Social Security Number After Divorce

    What is the procedure for changing or correcting my name on my Social Security card? If your name officially changes due to marriage, divorce, a court order, or any other reason, you must notify Social Security so that you may get a revised card. A corrected card cannot be requested through the internet.

    You Can Request Your Card Online Today

    How can you Make a Social Security Card Name Change

    Sign in or create an account to submit your request

    You can replace your card online and receive it in 14 days. You can also use your account to check the status of your request and manage other benefits you receive from us.

    Trouble signing in?

    Start the application online and visit your local SSA office for additional guidance for completing your application.

    Prefer to talk to someone?

    Contact your local SSA office.

    You can start your Social Security number card application online. Once you’ve submitted your request, visit your local SSA office for additional guidance for completing your application. You will need to give us some of the information you provided again.

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    Social Security Cards: Documents Required To Obtain A Social Security Number And Card Or A Replacement Card

    Local Social Security offices are offering more in-person appointments and have resumed in-person service for people without an appointment. It is strongly encouraged to continue to go online, call for help, and schedule appointments in advance.

    For more information on How to Get Help from Social Security, visit the website:

    Link to the Social Security Administration website: www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices.

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    To Obtain a New Social Security Number and Card you will need to provide at least two documents to prove age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or current immigration status.

    The new online service allows individuals to get replacement Social Security cards through the Social Security Administration website at: www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber

    To Obtain a Replacement Card, if lost or stolen, you must prove your identity and U.S. citizenship.

    To prove identity: Social Security must see:

    • U.S. drivers license or
    • State-issued non-driver identity card or

    If you do not have these specific documents or cannot get a replacement for them within ten days, Social Security will ask to see other documents, such as:

    • Employee ID card
    • Letter from doctor, with your name, address, social security number and doctors name, address, and signature

    To Prove Age: Social Security must see:

    To prove U.S. citizenship: Under recent changes in law, only certain documents can be accepted as proof of U.S. citizenship. These include:

    Replacement Card For A Foreign Born Us Child

    You can replace your child’s Social Security card for free if it is lost or stolen. However you may not need to get a replacement card, knowing your childâs Social Security number is what’s important. You are limited to three replacement cards in a year and 10 during a lifetime. Legal name changes do not count toward these limits. Also, you may not be affected by these limits if you can prove you need the card to prevent a significant hardship.

    Important

    You must present original documents or copies certified by the agency that issued them. We cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies. All documents must be current . We cannot accept a receipt showing you applied for the document.

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