How to Update Your Address With Social Security

You need to tell Social Security about your address change in person, by mail, or online through your My Social Security account

Social Security keeps your address on file so they can mail you benefit statements, tax forms, and notices about your account. If you move and don't update it, important documents go to your old address and you may miss information about changes to your benefits. The fastest way to update is through your My Social Security account online, but you can also do it by mail or in person at a local Social Security office.

You'll need proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government-issued ID with your current address all work. If you're updating in person or by mail, bring one of these documents along with your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number.

Key Takeaways

The My Social Security online account is the fastest way to change your address and takes effect when ready.
You can also mail a signed letter with your new address and proof of residence to your local Social Security office.
In-person updates at a Social Security office require your Social Security card or a document showing your number, plus proof of your new address.
Social Security uses your address to mail benefit statements, tax forms, and important notices, so updating it prevents documents from going to the wrong place.
If you don't have internet access or a My Social Security account, calling 1-800-772-1213 can connect you with an office that serves your area.

Updating your address online through My Social Security

If you have a My Social Security account, you can change your address without leaving home. Go to ssa.gov/myaccount, sign in with your username and password, and look for the "Personal Information" or "Address" section. Click to edit your address, enter your new one, and confirm the change. The update takes effect right away, and you'll see a confirmation on the screen.

If you don't have a My Social Security account yet, you can create one at the same website. You'll need your Social Security number, email address, and a way to verify your identity — usually a phone number or credit card on file. Once your account is set up, you can change your address anytime without waiting for office hours or mailing anything.

Changing your address by mail

Write a letter to your local Social Security office with your name, Social Security number, old address, and new address. Include a copy of one document that shows your new address — a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government ID all work. Sign the letter and mail it to the Social Security office that serves your area.

You can find your local office address on ssa.gov/locator. Enter your zip code and the website shows you the nearest office with its mailing address. Mail typically takes one to two weeks to process, so your address may not update when ready. Keep a copy of your letter for your records in case you need to follow up.

Updating your address in person at a Social Security office

Bring your Social Security card (or a document showing your number, like a birth certificate or driver's license) and proof of your new address to your local Social Security office. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or recent government-issued ID with your current address all count as proof. Tell the staff member you need to update your address, and they'll process it on the spot.

You don't need an appointment at most offices, but you may wait in line. If you want to avoid a wait, call ahead at 1-800-772-1213 and ask whether your local office takes appointments. The address change takes effect the same day you visit.

What counts as proof of your new address

Social Security accepts several types of documents to prove where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days works. So does a current lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a government-issued ID like a driver's license or state ID card with your new address on it.

If you don't have any of these, you can also use a bank or credit card statement, an insurance policy, or a letter from your employer or school with your name and address. The document needs to show your name and your new address clearly. If you're updating in person, bring the original or a copy — staff will tell you which they need.

How long the address change takes to go through

Online updates through My Social Security take effect when ready. Mail takes one to two weeks from the time your local office receives it, depending on how busy they are. In-person updates at an office happen the same day you visit.

After you update your address, Social Security will use the new one for all future mail. If you're expecting a specific document like a tax form or benefit statement, it may take a few extra days to arrive at your new address because it was already in the mail system. If you don't receive something you're expecting within two weeks of updating your address, call 1-800-772-1213 to check on it.

Updating your address if you don't have a Social Security card

You can still change your address without your card. Bring another document that shows your Social Security number — a birth certificate, passport, driver's license, or state ID card works. If you're mailing the change, include a copy of one of these documents along with your proof of new address.

If you've lost your card and want to replace it at the same time, you can do both in one visit to a Social Security office. Bring your birth certificate, passport, or state ID, plus proof of your new address. The staff will update your address and order a replacement card, which arrives by mail within two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to update my address with Social Security if I move?

You don't have to, but Social Security recommends it so important documents reach you. If you don't update and they mail something to your old address, you may miss notices about changes to your benefits or tax forms you need. It takes just a few minutes to update online or by mail.

Can I change my address over the phone?

No, Social Security does not change addresses over the phone for security reasons. You can update online through My Social Security, by mail, or in person at an office. Calling 1-800-772-1213 can help you find your local office or answer questions about what documents you need.

What if I'm moving to a different state?

The process is the same whether you're moving across town or across the country. Update your address through My Social Security, mail, or in person at your new local office. You don't need to do anything with your Social Security card itself — it's valid in all states.

How do I know if my address change went through?

If you updated online, you'll see a confirmation message on the screen right away. If you mailed the change, call 1-800-772-1213 after two weeks to confirm it was processed. If you updated in person, ask the staff member for a receipt or confirmation before you leave the office.

Can someone else change my address for me?

Only you can change your address on your Social Security account. If you need help, a family member can go with you to an office or help you set up your My Social Security account, but you'll need to be the one to make the change. If you're unable to do it yourself, contact your local office to ask about options.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.