Can I Get A New Social Security Number Due To Identity Theft?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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You can’t change your Social Security number simply because your card has been lost or stolen, or to avoid bankruptcy or legitimate debts. The only other reasons Social Security will consider assigning a new number are: ... Another person was assigned or is using your number.

Can you get a new Social Security number because of identity theft?

You can’t change your Social Security number simply because your card has been lost or stolen, or to avoid bankruptcy or legitimate debts. The only other reasons Social Security will consider assigning a new number are: ... Another person was assigned or is using your number.

What should I do if I get identity theft Social Security number?

The FTC collects complaints about identity theft from those whose identities have been stolen. You may reach the FTC’s identity theft hotline toll free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or visit their website at www.ftc.gov/idtheft. Consider placing a fraud alert on your Social Security number.

How do I make sure no one has stolen my Social Security number?

  1. File a police report or a Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Identity Theft Report. ...
  2. If you believe your identity has already been used, you can also contact the Social Security Fraud Hotline at (800) 269-0271.

How much does it cost to change your Social Security number?

There is no charge for a Social Security card . You can use a my Social Security account to request a replacement Social Security card online if you: Are a U.S. citizen age 18 years or older with a U.S. mailing address.

What is a stolen identity?

Identity theft is when someone uses your personal or financial information without your permission . They might steal your name and address, credit card, or bank account numbers, Social Security number, or medical insurance account numbers. And they could use them to. buy things with your credit cards.

How can you protect yourself from identity theft?

  1. 10 Ways To Protect Yourself From Identity Theft. ...
  2. Destroy private records and statements. ...
  3. Secure your mail. ...
  4. Safeguard your Social Security number. ...
  5. Don’t leave a paper trail. ...
  6. Never let your credit card out of your sight. ...
  7. Know who you’re dealing with. ...
  8. Take your name off marketers’ hit lists.

Should I be worried if someone has my Social Security number?

If you suspect somebody has your Social Security Number — whether they stole it from a company (like Equifax) or you gave it to them voluntarily — it’s important to set up credit monitoring . Typically your bank or the company that was breached will provide this to you for free.

How do I know if my Social Security number has been compromised?

at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or go to: www.identitytheft.gov/ To order a copy of your Social Security Administration earnings and benefits statement, or to check whether someone has used your Social Security number to get a job or to avoid paying taxes, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/statement/.

Can you change your SSN?

You can’t change your Social Security number simply because your card has been lost or stolen , or to avoid bankruptcy or legitimate debts. The only other reasons Social Security will consider assigning a new number are: Sequential numbers assigned to members of your family are causing confusion.

Can someone access my bank account with my Social Security number?

Identity hackers can also use your stolen SSN to dip into any of your existing bank accounts. Posing as you, they can get their name added to the account or simply transfer money.

Can I use my SSN to get money?

Once someone has your Social Security number, they can essentially become you. They may be able to collect tax refunds , collect benefits and income, commit crimes, make purchases, set up phone numbers and websites, establish residences, and use health insurance—all in your name.

How long does it take to change your Social Security number?

No appointment is necessary. Once the SSA has your application, you can expect your card in 10 to 14 days .

How do you prove identity theft?

  1. The Identity Theft Affidavit you filed with the FTC;
  2. Government-issued photographic ID (such as a state ID card or driver’s license);
  3. Proof of your home address (like a utility bill or rent agreement);
  4. Proof of the theft (bills from creditors or notices from the IRS); and.

How common is ID theft?

Identity theft affects about 1 in 20 American each year . According to Javelin’s 2020 Identity Fraud Survey, 13 million consumers in the U.S. were affected by identity fraud in 2019 with total fraud losses of nearly $17 billion.

What happens if someone steals my identity?

Identity (ID) theft happens when someone steals your personal information to commit fraud . The identity thief may use your information to apply for credit, file taxes, or get medical services. These acts can damage your credit status, and cost you time and money to restore your good name.

Maria LaPaige
Author
Maria LaPaige
Maria is a parenting expert and mother of three. She has written several books on parenting and child development, and has been featured in various parenting magazines. Maria's practical approach to family life has helped many parents navigate the ups and downs of raising children.