What You Can and Cannot Change on Your Social Security Record

You can change your name, address, and citizenship status on your Social Security record. You cannot change your Social Security number itself — the nine-digit number stays with you for life. The Social Security Administration (SSA) will issue a new number only in rare cases involving identity theft, harassment, or religious objection to the number's format, and even then you must meet strict criteria.

Most changes happen through your local Social Security office or online through your my Social Security account. The process takes a few weeks, and you will need documents that prove who you are and what you are changing. Getting this done matters because your records feed into your credit report, tax filings, and the benefits you receive later.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change your name, address, phone number, and direct deposit information on your Social Security record without visiting an office if you use your my Social Security account online.
  • A legal name change requires a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree — Social Security will not accept a straightforward request without proof.
  • Address changes take effect when ready online but may take two to four weeks by mail.
  • If you need a new Social Security number, you must show that your current number is causing you direct harm, and the SSA rarely approves these requests.
  • You will receive a new Social Security card in the mail after any change, usually within two weeks.

Changing Your Name on Your Social Security Record

A name change requires legal proof. If you married, divorced, or changed your name through a court order, bring the original or certified copy of the document to your local Social Security office. The SSA accepts marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and court orders for name changes. You will also need to show a photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal residency.

Do not send original documents by mail — always bring them in person or use a certified copy. The SSA will keep the documents on file and send you a new Social Security card within two weeks. Your old card becomes invalid once the new one arrives. If you changed your name informally and have no legal document, the SSA cannot process the change.

Updating Your Address and Contact Information

The fastest way to change your address is through your my Social Security account online at ssa.gov. Log in, go to your profile, and update your mailing address. The change takes effect when ready, and you do not need to visit an office or mail anything. If you do not have an online account, you can create one for free using your email, phone number, and Social Security number.

If you prefer to change your address by mail, fill out Form SSA-561 and mail it to your local Social Security office. Changes by mail take two to four weeks. You can also call the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to update your address over the phone, though you will need to verify your identity first. Phone lines are busiest early in the morning and on Mondays and Tuesdays.

When You Might Need a New Social Security Number

The SSA issues a new number only when your current number is causing you direct, documented harm. The most common reason is identity theft — if someone is using your number to work, get credit, or commit fraud, you can request a replacement. You must file a police report or report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at identitytheft.gov before the SSA will consider your request.

Other reasons the SSA may approve a new number include ongoing harassment or abuse tied to your number, or religious objection to the number itself. You cannot request a new number straightforward because you dislike your current one or want a "luckier" number. The SSA will ask you to explain in writing why your current number is causing harm, and approval is not may provide. If approved, you will receive a new card and number within two weeks, but your old number remains on record with the SSA.

Documents You Need to Bring

For any change to your Social Security record, bring a photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal residency. A valid driver's license, passport, or state ID card counts as photo ID. For citizenship or residency, bring your birth certificate, passport, naturalization papers, or green card.

If you are changing your name, also bring the legal document proving the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the original or a certified copy, not a photocopy. If you are requesting a new number due to identity theft, bring a copy of your police report or FTC identity theft report. The SSA will keep copies on file and return originals to you.

How Long Changes Take to Process

Online changes through your my Social Security account take effect when ready for address and contact information. Your new Social Security card arrives by mail within two weeks. If you make changes in person at a Social Security office, the card is usually mailed the same day, and you will receive it within two weeks.

Changes by mail take longer — typically two to four weeks for address updates and four to six weeks for name changes or new numbers. If you need your change processed quickly, visit your local office in person rather than mailing a form. Bring all required documents so the office can process your request the same day.

Finding Your Local Social Security Office

Visit ssa.gov/locator to find the office nearest you. Enter your zip code and the site will show office addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., though some have extended hours on certain days. You do not need an appointment for most changes, but calling ahead can tell you how busy the office is.

If you cannot visit in person, you can request a replacement card by mail using Form SSA-5 or through your my Social Security account. For other changes like name or number, you will likely need to visit an office or call 1-800-772-1213 to speak with a representative. Wait times on the phone can be long, especially early in the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I create a my Social Security account?

Go to ssa.gov/myaccount and click "Create an account". You will need your email, phone number, and Social Security number. The SSA will send a verification code to your email. Once you verify, you can log in and view your earnings record, change your address, and request a replacement card.

Can I change my Social Security number if someone stole my identity?

Yes, but you must file a police report or report the theft to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov first. Bring a copy of the report to your local Social Security office along with your ID and proof of citizenship. The SSA will review your case, but approval is not automatic — you must show that your current number is causing you direct harm.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

Request a replacement through your my Social Security account online, by mail using Form SSA-5, or in person at your local office. You can request up to three replacement cards per year. A new card arrives within two weeks. You do not need a new number — a replacement card has the same number as your original.

Do I need to notify Social Security if I move?

You should update your address with Social Security so they can reach you about benefits or other matters. Update it online through your my Social Security account, by mail, or by phone. Changes take effect when ready online or within two to four weeks by mail.

Can I change my name without a court order?

No. Social Security requires legal proof of a name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you changed your name informally without a legal document, you will need to go through a court process first. Contact your local courthouse to learn how to file for a legal name change in your state.