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

Social Security keeps your mailing address on file to send you notices, tax documents, and benefit statements. If you move, you need to update this address so mail reaches you. The fastest way is through your My Social Security account online — it takes about five minutes and updates within a few days. If you do not have an online account, you can visit a Social Security office in person with proof of identity and residency, or mail a signed request with copies of documents.

Do not assume your address changed automatically when you moved. Social Security does not pull address updates from other agencies. You must report the change yourself, or mail may pile up at your old address or be returned as undeliverable.

Key Takeaways

  • The My Social Security online account is the fastest method — your address updates within a few days without visiting an office.
  • You will need proof of identity (driver's license, passport, or state ID) and proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days) if you go in person.
  • If you mail your request, include a signed letter with your name, Social Security number, old address, and new address, plus copies of identity and residency documents.
  • Social Security does not automatically update your address when you move — you must report it yourself to keep receiving mail.

Creating or logging into your My Social Security account online

The online method is the simplest if you already have a My Social Security account. Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and sign in with your username and password. If you have not created an account yet, select "Create an account" and follow the setup steps — you will need your Social Security number, email address, and a way to verify your identity (usually a mobile phone number or email code).

Once you are logged in, look for "Personal Information" or "Profile Settings" in the menu. Select the option to change your address. Enter your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code. Review the information for accuracy, then submit. You will see a confirmation message on screen. Social Security will send a confirmation letter to your new address within a few days to verify the change went through.

Visiting a Social Security office in person

If you prefer to change your address face-to-face or do not have an online account, visit your local Social Security office. Bring one document that proves your identity — a driver's license, state ID, U.S. passport, or military ID work. You also need one document that proves you live at the new address and is dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and new address will work.

Go to ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you and check its hours. Some offices require you to make an appointment in advance; others take walk-ins. Tell the staff member you want to update your mailing address. They will verify your documents, update your file, and give you a receipt. The change takes effect when ready in their system, though mail may take a few days to route to your new address.

Mailing a written request to Social Security

You can also send a signed letter to Social Security by mail. Write a short note that includes your full name, Social Security number, current address, and new address. Sign and date the letter. Make copies of two documents: one that proves your identity and one that proves your residency at the new address (both should meet the standards listed above — identity document should be current, residency document should be dated within 60 days).

Mail the letter and copies to the Social Security office that serves your area. You can find the mailing address at ssa.gov/locator. Include a return address so Social Security can send you a confirmation. Processing by mail takes longer than online or in-person — usually two to four weeks. Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.

What happens after you report your address change

Once Social Security processes your change, your new address goes into their system. Any future mail — benefit statements, tax forms, notices about your account — will go to the new address. If you changed your address online, you will receive a confirmation letter at your new address within a few days. If you went in person, the office gives you a receipt when ready.

If you are receiving Social Security benefits, the change also updates the address where your benefit payments are sent if you receive a check by mail. If you have direct deposit set up, your payment method does not change — only the mailing address for notices and documents. If you moved and are worried mail was sent to your old address, contact your local Social Security office and ask them to check what was mailed and when.

Common mistakes to avoid

Do not assume the change is complete after one step. If you submitted online, wait for the confirmation letter before assuming it worked. If you mailed a request, keep your receipt or a copy of what you sent so you can follow up if you do not hear back after four weeks.

Do not use a P.O. box as your mailing address with Social Security unless you also provide a physical street address. Social Security needs a street address on file for certain notices and documents. If you are temporarily staying with someone, use their address and include your name on any mail you expect. If you are homeless or in transition, ask your local Social Security office about alternative address options — they can sometimes use a shelter address, a trusted contact's address, or a community organization's address.

Do not forget to update your address with other agencies too. Changing your Social Security address does not automatically update your address with the IRS, your state's tax agency, Medicare, Medicaid, or your bank. You will need to contact each of those separately.

If you need help with your address change

If you cannot access the online account, do not have the required documents, or have questions about your specific situation, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. The line is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Have your Social Security number ready when you call. You can also visit your local office in person — staff there can answer questions and help you update your address on the spot if you bring the right documents.

If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call the TTY number at 1-800-325-0778. If you speak a language other than English, Social Security has interpreters available — tell the staff member when you call or visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Online changes usually take a few days. In-person changes take effect when ready in Social Security's system, though mail routing may take longer. Mailed requests take two to four weeks. You will receive a confirmation letter at your new address once the change is processed.

What if I do not have a driver's license or state ID?

A U.S. passport or military ID works as proof of identity. If you do not have any of those, ask your local Social Security office what other documents they accept — they may take a birth certificate, naturalization papers, or other government-issued ID depending on your situation.

Can I change my address over the phone?

Social Security does not change addresses over the phone for security reasons. You must use the online account, visit in person, or mail a signed request. This protects your account from unauthorized changes.

What if I moved but do not know my new ZIP code?

Look up your ZIP code at usps.com by entering your street address and city. You can also call the post office serving your new address or ask a neighbor. You need the correct ZIP code for mail to reach you.

Do I need to change my address if I am moving temporarily?

If you are moving for less than a month, you may not need to change it. If you are gone longer, update your address so mail reaches you. You can change it again when you move back, or ask Social Security to hold your mail at the local office until you return.