Can you change your Social Security number?

A new Social Security number can be approved if it is proven that a number has been stolen and misused, or in cases of abuse or harassment. Evidence must be provided to support the request.

To be considered for a new number, an applicant must prove age, citizenship and identity. A new number does not prevent credit reporting services and other agencies with access to personal information from linking the old number to the new.

There is no application fee for a new Social Security number, although some services may charge to help applicants prepare the application. The final application must be mailed to the nearest Social Security office.