You can change your Social Security mailing address online, by phone, or in person at a local office
Social Security will mail you notices about your benefits, replacement cards, and other important documents to whatever address they have on file. If you move, you need to update that address so mail reaches you. The fastest way is through your my Social Security account online, which takes about five minutes. If you do not have an online account or prefer to call, you can reach Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You can also walk into any Social Security office in person with proof of your new address.
All three methods are free and reach the same Social Security database. Your choice depends on what is easiest for you — online if you have an account set up, phone if you prefer talking to a person, or in person if you want a receipt on the spot.
Key Takeaways
- You can update your address online through my Social Security at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or at your local Social Security office.
- If you use the online method, you will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and login credentials for your account.
- By phone or in person, bring a document that shows your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
- Social Security processes address changes within one to two weeks, though some mail sent to your old address may still arrive during that time.
- If you receive benefits by direct deposit, changing your mailing address does not affect your bank account or payment schedule.
Updating your address through my Social Security online
Log into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov. If you do not have an account, you can create one using your email, Social Security number, and date of birth. Once logged in, look for the "Personal Information" or "Profile" section — the exact wording varies slightly depending on when your account was created. You may need to answer security questions to confirm your identity before you can make changes.
Click on the option to change your address. Enter your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Review the information for accuracy before submitting — misspelled street names or ZIP codes can delay mail. Social Security will send a confirmation email to the address on file with your account. The change usually takes effect within one to two weeks, though you may receive mail at your old address during that time if it was already in transit.
Changing your address by phone
Call 1-800-772-1213 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday. Have your Social Security number ready. A representative will ask you to confirm your identity by providing your date of birth and other personal details. Then tell them your new address and ask them to repeat it back to you to make sure it was entered correctly.
The representative will give you a confirmation number. Write it down for your records. Processing by phone takes the same one to two weeks as online. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use the TTY number 1-800-325-0778, or call through a relay service. You do not need to provide a document over the phone — Social Security verifies your identity through the questions they ask.
Changing your address in person at a Social Security office
Find your nearest Social Security office by visiting ssa.gov/locator or calling 1-800-772-1213. Bring a document that shows your new address and was issued within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government-issued ID with your new address on it. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now ask you to schedule one online or by phone first.
When you arrive, tell the staff member you want to update your mailing address. They will verify your identity, record your new address, and give you a receipt. The change is usually processed within one to two weeks. Having a receipt in hand can be useful if you need to follow up or if mail continues to arrive at your old address after the processing window.
What documents prove your new address
Social Security accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice because it is recent and shows both your name and address. A lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement also works. Some offices accept a government-issued ID if it has been updated to your new address, though this is less common.
If you do not have any of these documents, call your local Social Security office before you visit. They can tell you what other proof they will accept in your situation. Do not bring originals if you can avoid it — bring a copy or ask the office to photocopy it for you. If you are moving into a new home and have not yet received a utility bill there, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord confirming your move-in date may work.
What happens after you change your address
Social Security will begin sending mail to your new address within one to two weeks. However, mail that was already printed and sent before your change was processed may still arrive at your old address. If you are expecting a replacement card or important notice, do not be alarmed if it takes a few extra days to arrive at your new location.
If you receive benefits by direct deposit, your payment schedule and bank account do not change. Your address change affects only where Social Security mails documents to you. If you move again, you will need to update your address a second time using the same methods. You can also check your address anytime by logging into my Social Security to confirm the change went through correctly.
Updating your address if you receive benefits
If you receive Social Security retirement, disability, or survivor benefits, changing your mailing address does not affect your monthly payment. Your benefits will continue to deposit into your bank account on the same schedule. You are changing only where notices and documents are sent. This includes your annual Social Security statement, tax forms for reporting benefits, and notices about changes to your account.
However, if you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) instead of regular Social Security benefits, tell Social Security about your move as soon as possible. SSI has stricter rules about living situations, and your caseworker may need to know your new address to continue your case. Use any of the three methods above — online, phone, or in person — to update your address for SSI as well. Some SSI cases also require a home visit, so notifying Social Security promptly helps avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take Social Security to process an address change?
Social Security usually processes address changes within one to two weeks. Mail that was already sent before your change was processed may still arrive at your old address. If you need to confirm the change went through, log back into your my Social Security account or call 1-800-772-1213 to verify.
What if I move again before my first address change is processed?
Call 1-800-772-1213 or log into your my Social Security account again and update your address a second time. Tell the representative or system that you have a new address. Social Security will process the most recent change you submitted.
Do I need to change my address if I get direct deposit?
Yes. Changing your mailing address does not affect your direct deposit payments, but Social Security will mail you notices, tax forms, and other documents to your address on file. If you do not update it, those documents will go to your old address.
Can I change my address for someone else's Social Security account?
Only if you are a representative payee or authorized to manage their account. If you are, you can change the address online through my Social Security using their information, or call 1-800-772-1213 and explain your role. You may need to provide proof of your authority.
What if I do not have proof of my new address?
Call your local Social Security office before you visit. They can tell you what documents they will accept in your situation. In some cases, they may accept a letter from a landlord, shelter, or other organization that confirms your address, even if it is not an official utility bill or lease.