You can change your Social Security address in person, by mail, or online through your My Social Security account

The Social Security Administration (SSA) keeps your address on file to send you notices, tax documents, and other important mail. If you move, you need to update that address so documents reach you. The fastest way is through your My Social Security account online if you already have one set up. If you don't have an online account or prefer not to use it, you can visit a local Social Security office in person or mail in a form.

You'll need proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government-issued ID with your current address all work. The SSA doesn't charge a fee to change your address, and the change usually takes effect within a few days.

Key Takeaways

  • The My Social Security online account is the fastest way to change your address if you have one; the change takes effect within days.
  • If you don't have an online account, you can visit your local Social Security office with proof of your new address and your Social Security card or ID.
  • You can also mail Form SS-8 (Statement Regarding Your Residence) or a signed letter with your old and new address to your local Social Security office.
  • Proof of address can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government ID showing your current address.
  • The SSA will not update your address over the phone, so you must use one of these three methods.

Changing 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 "Profile" or "Personal Information" section. Click on your address and select "Edit." Enter your new address exactly as it appears on your proof of address document, then save the change.

The system will confirm the change when ready on screen. You should see the updated address in your account right away, though it may take a few days for the change to move through all SSA systems. 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, date of birth, email address, and a way to verify your identity (usually a phone number or U.S. bank account).

Changing your address in person at a Social Security office

Walk into your local Social Security office with your Social Security card (or a document showing your number), a photo ID, and proof of your new address. Tell the staff member you need to update your address. They will ask you to confirm your old address and provide your new one, then update it on the spot.

You can find your nearest office by visiting ssa.gov/locator or calling 1-800-772-1213. Social Security offices are typically open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though hours vary by location. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require you to call ahead or book an appointment online. Calling ahead is usually faster than showing up without notice.

Changing your address by mail

If you prefer to mail in your address change, send a signed letter to your local Social Security office. The letter should include your full name, Social Security number, old address, and new address. You can also use Form SS-8 (Statement Regarding Your Residence), which you can read from ssa.gov/forms or request by calling 1-800-772-1213.

Include a copy of your proof of address with your letter or form — don't send the original. Mail it to your local Social Security office; you can find the mailing address on the office locator at ssa.gov/locator. Allow two to three weeks for the change to process by mail. Keep a copy of what you send for your records.

What counts as proof of your new address

The SSA accepts several types of documents as proof of your current address. A recent utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill all work. A government-issued ID with your new address — such as a driver's license or state ID — also counts. The document should show your name and address clearly and be dated within the last 60 days, though the SSA may accept older documents in some cases.

If you're moving and don't yet have a document in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or property manager for a signed letter confirming your move-in date and new address. Some utility companies will also provide a letter confirming your account setup at the new address. Call ahead to your local Social Security office if you're unsure whether your document will be accepted.

What happens after you change your address

Once your address is updated, the SSA will send future mail to your new location. If you changed your address online, the change is usually active within a few days. If you changed it in person or by mail, allow up to two weeks for the change to take effect across all SSA systems.

If you're receiving Social Security benefits, Medicare, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), the address change will explore to all of those programs at once — you don't need to notify them separately. If you receive other government benefits (such as food information or housing support), those programs have their own address records, so you'll need to update those separately through each program's office or website.

What to do if you're moving soon but haven't moved yet

You can change your address before you move if you know your new address. The SSA will start sending mail to your new location on the date you provide. If you're moving within a few days, you might want to wait until after you move to change your address, so mail doesn't arrive at your old place while you're in transit.

If you've already moved and realize you didn't update your address, do it as soon as possible. Any mail sent to your old address may be returned to the SSA or lost. If you're missing important documents (like a Social Security statement or Medicare card), contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 to request replacements once your address is updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my Social Security address over the phone?

No. The SSA does not change addresses over the phone for security reasons. You must use your My Social Security account online, visit an office in person, or mail in a form. If you call 1-800-772-1213, the representative can tell you how to change your address but cannot do it for you.

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

Online changes through My Social Security take effect within a few days. In-person changes at a Social Security office are usually when ready. Mail-in changes take two to three weeks. If you need documents sent to your new address urgently, change your address online or in person rather than by mail.

Do I need to change my address with Medicare separately?

No. If you're on Medicare, changing your address with Social Security updates it for Medicare at the same time. You do not need to contact Medicare separately. However, if you have a Medicare Advantage plan or prescription drug plan through a private insurer, contact that company directly to make sure they have your new address.

What if I don't have a photo ID or Social Security card?

Bring whatever identification you have — a birth certificate, passport, or state ID without a photo may work. Call your local Social Security office ahead of time to ask what documents they will accept. If you've lost your Social Security card, you can request a replacement at the same time you update your address.

Will changing my address affect my benefits?

No. Changing your address does not change the amount of benefits you receive or your may be able to access. It only updates where the SSA sends your mail and documents. Your benefits continue without interruption.