You can change your Social Security address online through your my Social Security account, but only if you meet specific conditions
Social Security lets you update your mailing address through my Social Security, the agency's online portal, but the option is not available to everyone. You can change your address online only if you have a Social Security number, are at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and have a valid email address. If you do not meet these conditions, or if you need to change the address on your Social Security card itself (not just your mailing address), you will need to visit a Social Security office in person or mail in a form.
The online method takes about five minutes once you are logged in. You do not need to provide documents or wait for mail. The change shows up in Social Security's system right away, though it may take a few days to appear in related government databases.
Key Takeaways
- You can change your mailing address online through my Social Security if you are 18 or older, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have a valid email address.
- Changing your address online updates your mailing address for benefit statements and correspondence, but does not change the address printed on your Social Security card.
- If you need to update the address on your actual card, you must visit a Social Security office in person or mail Form SS-5 with proof of residency.
- Online address changes take effect when ready in Social Security's system, though other government agencies may take several days to receive the update.
How to change your address through my Social Security
Start by going to ssa.gov/myaccount and signing in with your username and password. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one. The sign-up process asks for your Social Security number, date of birth, and email address, and takes about 10 minutes.
Once you are logged in, look for the "Profile" or "Personal Information" section (the exact label varies depending on when your account was created). Select the option to change your address. Enter your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Review the information for accuracy, then confirm the change. You will see a message confirming the update was successful.
Social Security will send a confirmation letter to your new address within a few days. Keep this letter in case you need proof that you notified Social Security of your move.
When you cannot change your address online
If you are under 18, not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, or do not have an email address, you cannot use the online method. You will need to visit a Social Security office in person or mail in your request.
You also cannot change your address online if you need to update the actual address printed on your Social Security card. The card itself is a physical document, and changing what appears on it requires submitting Form SS-5 (process for a Social Security Card) in person at a Social Security office. You will need to bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 12 months.
Changing your address by mail or in person
If you prefer not to use the online portal, you can mail a letter to your local Social Security office. Write a straightforward note with your old address, new address, and Social Security number, then mail it to the office that serves your area. You can find your local office at ssa.gov/locator. Mail takes longer than the online method — typically two to four weeks — so plan ahead if you are moving soon.
To change your address in person, visit your local Social Security office with a photo ID and proof of your new address. Bring documents such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement. The office will update your address on the spot, and you will receive a confirmation before you leave.
What happens after you change your address
Once you update your address — whether online, by mail, or in person — Social Security will send future benefit statements, tax forms, and other correspondence to your new location. If you receive Social Security benefits, your payments will continue to go to your bank account or debit card as usual; changing your address does not affect direct deposit.
Other government agencies, such as the IRS or your state's unemployment office, may not receive your new address right away. If you need to update your address with multiple agencies, you may want to contact each one separately to avoid delays in receiving important mail.
Updating your address if you do not have online access
If you do not have a computer or internet connection, you can still change your address by phone. Call Social Security's main number at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778 for deaf or hard of hearing callers). A representative will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, and new address, then update your account over the phone. This method is free and takes about 10 minutes.
Phone lines are busiest early in the morning and on Mondays and Tuesdays. If you call in the afternoon or on a Wednesday through Friday, you may wait less time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does changing my address online also change the address on my Social Security card?
No. Changing your address online updates your mailing address in Social Security's records, but it does not change the address printed on your physical card. If you need a new card with your updated address, you must visit a Social Security office in person with Form SS-5 and proof of residency.
How long does it take for my address change to show up?
Online changes take effect when ready in Social Security's system. A confirmation letter will arrive at your new address within a few days. Other government agencies may take longer to receive the update, so contact them separately if needed.
What if I move before my confirmation letter arrives?
Contact Social Security to update your address again with your new location. You can do this online, by phone, or in person. Social Security will send a new confirmation letter to your most recent address.
Can I change my address if I do not have an email address?
You cannot use the online method without an email address, but you can change your address by phone at 1-800-772-1213, by mail, or in person at your local Social Security office.
What documents do I need to change my address in person?
Bring a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of your new address dated within the last 12 months, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement. If you are changing the address on your card itself, you will also need Form SS-5.