You can change your address with Social Security by phone, mail, or in person at a local office

The Social Security Administration (SSA) keeps your address on file to send you important documents, tax forms, and notices. You can update it without visiting an office — the fastest way is usually by phone. SSA accepts address changes through three routes: calling their national number, mailing a signed form, or walking into a local field office. Most changes take effect within one to two weeks.

You will need your Social Security number and proof of your new address ready before you start. Proof can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government-issued ID with your new address already printed on it. If you are changing the address for someone else (a child, spouse, or person you have power of attorney for), you will need to show your relationship and may need additional documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Call SSA's toll-free number 1-800-772-1213 to report your address change over the phone — this is the fastest method and requires only your Social Security number and new address.
  • Mail Form SSA-561 (Statement Regarding Your Residence) signed and dated to your local SSA office, along with proof of your new address such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Visit a local Social Security field office in person with your Social Security card (or number) and a document showing your new address.
  • Address changes typically take one to two weeks to appear in SSA's system, so plan ahead if you are expecting important mail.
  • If you receive benefits, updating your address ensures you continue to receive payments and notices without delay.

Calling Social Security to report your address change

Calling is the quickest option for most people. Dial 1-800-772-1213 Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. your local time. Have your Social Security number and your new complete address ready before you call. The representative will ask you to confirm your identity by answering a few security questions, then will record your new address.

Wait times can be long during peak hours (mid-morning and early afternoon). If you reach a busy signal, hang up and try again later or call early in the morning. You do not need to mail anything or visit an office — the change is recorded during the call. Ask the representative to confirm the address they entered before you hang up, and note the date and time of your call in case you need to follow up.

Mailing your address change to Social Security

If you prefer to mail your change, read or request Form SSA-561 from the SSA website (ssa.gov) or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Fill in your name, Social Security number, and new address. Sign and date the form — unsigned forms are rejected and returned. Include one document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or a government-issued ID with your new address already printed on it.

Mail the form and proof to your local Social Security field office. Find your local office address on ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Mail typically takes five to ten business days to arrive, and processing takes another one to two weeks. Keep a copy of what you send for your records. If you do not hear back within three weeks, call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm the change was received.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

You can walk into any local Social Security field office with your Social Security number (or card) and proof of your new address. Bring a document such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government ID showing your new address. The office staff will update your record on the spot, though the change may take one to two weeks to show up in all SSA systems.

Bring your Social Security card if you have it, but you do not need it — your number is enough. Offices are busiest mid-morning and mid-week; consider going early in the morning or on a Tuesday or Wednesday if you want a shorter wait. You do not need an appointment for an address change, but some offices allow you to request one online through ssa.gov.

What counts as proof of your new address

Social Security accepts several types of documents as proof. A current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name is the most common. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or homeowner's insurance statement also work. A government-issued ID with your new address already printed on it — such as a driver's license or state ID — counts as both identity proof and address proof.

The document must show your full name and complete new address. It should be dated within the last 60 days, though SSA may accept older documents if they are the only proof you have. If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, call 1-800-772-1213 to discuss your options — SSA has procedures for people without a fixed residence.

Changing the address for someone else

If you are updating the address for a child, spouse, or another person, you will need to show your relationship. A parent or legal guardian can change a child's address by providing the child's Social Security number, the new address, and proof of the relationship (birth certificate, adoption papers, or court order). A spouse can change their spouse's address if they have power of attorney or are listed as a representative payee.

If you have power of attorney or are a representative payee, bring the document that proves this status along with the person's Social Security number and the new address. If you are unsure whether you have the authority to make the change, call 1-800-772-1213 and explain your relationship — the representative will tell you what documents you need.

What happens after you report your address change

SSA typically updates your address within one to two weeks. If you receive Social Security benefits, your payment will continue to your bank account (if you have direct deposit) regardless of your address change. However, if you receive a paper check, the next check will be mailed to your new address once the change is processed.

Important documents such as your Social Security Statement, Medicare notices, and tax forms (like Form SSA-1099) will be mailed to your new address. If you are expecting a specific document and have just changed your address, call 1-800-772-1213 to confirm the change was recorded and ask when the document will be sent. If you move again, you can report the new address using any of the same three methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for Social Security to update my address?

Address changes typically take one to two weeks to appear in SSA's system. If you call, the change is recorded when ready, but it may take a few days to show up when you check your account online or when SSA mails documents. If you mail the form, add five to ten days for mail delivery plus one to two weeks for processing.

Can I change my address online through my Social Security account?

No, SSA does not currently allow address changes through their online account portal (ssa.gov/myaccount). You must call, mail Form SSA-561, or visit an office in person. Calling is the fastest option if you want to avoid mailing or traveling.

What if I moved and did not update my address — will my benefits stop?

No, your benefits will not stop. If you have direct deposit, your payment goes to your bank account regardless of your address. If you receive a paper check, it will be returned to SSA as undeliverable, and you will need to update your address and request a replacement check. Call 1-800-772-1213 as soon as you realize you have not reported the move.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card to change my address?

No, you do not need your card. Your Social Security number is enough. If you are visiting an office in person, bring your number and proof of your new address. If you are calling, have your number ready but you do not need to show anything.

Can I change my address if I do not have a permanent home?

Yes. If you are homeless or do not have a fixed address, call 1-800-772-1213 and explain your situation. SSA can use a shelter address, a care facility address, or a mailing address where you can receive mail. The representative will work with you to find a solution that works for your circumstances.