The fastest way to change your address with Social Security

You can change your address with Social Security online, by phone, or in person at a local office. The online method through my Social Security (the official account portal at ssa.gov) is fastest — you can update it yourself in minutes without waiting. If you do not have an online account, you can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and speak to a representative, or visit a Social Security office in your area with proof of your new address.

You do not need to mail anything or fill out a form unless you are changing the address for someone else's account (a child, spouse, or person you represent). If you are updating your own address and you have a my Social Security account, logging in and updating it yourself takes the least time.

Key Takeaways

  • The my Social Security online account at ssa.gov lets you change your own address when ready without calling or visiting an office.
  • If you do not have an online account, call 1-800-772-1213 during business hours to update your address over the phone with a representative.
  • You can also visit a local Social Security office in person with proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • If you are updating an address for someone else, you will need to complete Form SSA-561-U2 and provide proof you are authorized to make changes on their behalf.
  • Social Security uses your address to send notices, tax documents, and benefit payments, so updating it prevents mail from going to the wrong place.

Creating or logging into my Social Security online

If you already have a my Social Security account, log in at ssa.gov/myaccount. Once you are signed in, click on "Personal Information" in the left menu, then select "Address" and enter your new address. The change takes effect when ready.

If you do not have an account yet, go to ssa.gov/myaccount and click "Create an account." You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and either a valid U.S. driver's license or state ID number. Social Security will verify your identity using information from your credit file. Once your account is created, you can update your address the same way — through Personal Information.

Creating an account takes about 10 minutes. If Social Security cannot verify your identity online, you will be told to call 1-800-772-1213 or visit an office instead.

Changing your address by phone

Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Have your Social Security number and new address ready. A representative will update it for you on the call. You do not need to provide proof over the phone — Social Security will verify your identity by asking questions about your personal history.

Wait times are often shorter early in the morning or late in the afternoon. If you reach a busy signal, you can call back later or use the online method instead.

Changing your address in person at a Social Security office

Visit your local Social Security office with proof of your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government-issued mail with your name and new address. You will also need to bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number on it.

Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator. You can walk in during business hours (usually 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday), though some offices now require you to make an appointment first. Check the office's page to see if appointments are required in your area.

Updating an address for someone else

If you are changing the address for a child, spouse, or another person you represent, you will need to complete Form SSA-561-U2 (process to Change Address). You can read it from ssa.gov or pick it up at a local office. The form asks for the person's name, Social Security number, and the new address.

You will also need to prove you are authorized to make the change. This usually means providing a power of attorney document, guardianship papers, or a representative payee letter from Social Security. Mail the completed form and proof to your local Social Security office, or bring both in person. Processing takes one to two weeks.

What happens after you change your address

Social Security updates your address in their system and uses it to send you notices, tax documents (like your SSA-1099 if you receive benefits), and any benefit payments. If you receive a check by mail, it will be sent to your new address on the next payment cycle. If you receive direct deposit, your address change does not affect your payments — they continue to go to your bank account.

If you are expecting important mail from Social Security and you change your address, allow one to two weeks for the system to update before the next mailing. If you move again soon after, you can update your address as many times as you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for my address change to go through?

If you change it online through my Social Security, it is when ready. If you call or visit an office, it usually takes one business day. If you mail Form SSA-561-U2, allow one to two weeks for processing.

Do I need to bring anything if I change my address online?

No. If you log into my Social Security and update your address yourself, you do not need to provide proof. Social Security already has your identity verified from when you created your account.

What if I do not have a driver's license or state ID to create a my Social Security account?

You can call 1-800-772-1213 or visit a local office instead. You will need to bring proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate) and proof of your new address (such as a utility bill).

Will changing my address affect my Social Security benefits?

No. Changing your address does not change your benefits or payment amount. It only updates where Social Security sends your mail and documents.

Can I change my address if I am receiving benefits under a different name?

Yes. Use the name and Social Security number on your benefit statement. If your legal name has changed, you will need to update that separately with Social Security before or at the same time as your address change.