The Process of Requesting a New Social Security Number

Anyone can be a victim or survivor of domestic violence. For survivors, obtaining a new Social Security number is a vital step toward rebuilding their lives, enhancing personal security, and allowing them to move forward from past trauma.

A new Social Security number enables the establishment of new identities, securing employment, opening bank accounts, and accessing essential services without the risk of being tracked or harassed. This valuable tool helps reclaim independence and fosters a renewed sense of normalcy.

No matter what type of abuse you have experienced, it is important to create a safety plan. Depending on your situation, you may need a new social security number to relocate and establish a new identity.

How to Apply for a New Number

You must apply for a new Social Security number in person. You can go to any Social Security Administration (SSA) office to apply. Once there, you must complete a statement explaining why you need a new number and an application for the new number. You also must present the following information:

  • Your current Social Security number.
  • Documents that show your:
    • U.S. citizenship or work-authorized immigration status.
    • Age.
    • Identity.
    • Evidence of your legal name change if you have changed your name.

If you’re requesting new numbers for your children, you must bring documents showing you have custody of the children. You also need the documents listed above for each child.

All documents must be originals or certified copies from the issuing agency. Photocopies or pictures of the documents are not accepted.

Needed Documents

To obtain a new Social Security number, you must provide evidence of your U.S. citizenship or work authorization, age, and identity. The following documents can be used for each category.

Citizenship or Immigration Status

For U.S. Citizens: Only certain documents can be used as proof of citizenship. These include a U.S. birth certificate or U.S. passport.

For Immigrants: You must show a current immigration document to verify your status. You can find a list of appropriate documents on the  New Social Security Numbers for  Domestic Violence Victims document.

Age

U.S. born: A birth certificate must be presented if you have one. If you do not have a birth certificate, they may accept the following:

  • A religious record made before age five that shows the date of birth.
  • A U.S. hospital record of birth.
  • A U.S. passport or passport card.

Foreign born: You must present your foreign birth certificate if you have it or obtain a copy within 10 business days. If you can’t get it, they may accept your:

  • Foreign passport.
  • Permanent Resident Card.
  • Employment Authorization Document.
  • Arrival/Departure Record.

Identity

The Social Security office can only accept certain documents as proof of identity. The documents must be current and show your name, identifying information and preferably a recent photograph of the person.

For U.S. Citizens: A driver’s license, state-issued non-driver ID card, or U.S. passport can be used as proof of identity. If you do not have those documents, you can also use:

  • Certificate of Naturalization.
  • Certificate of U.S. Citizenship.
  • Employee identification card.
  • School identification card.
  • Health insurance card (not a Medicare card).
  • U.S. military identification card.

For Noncitizens:  The Social Security Office will need to see your current U.S. immigration documents. These are acceptable documents:

  • Permanent Resident Card.
  • Arrival/Departure Record with your unexpired foreign passport.
  • Employment Authorization Document.

Evidence of Abuse

Documenting the abuse you have experienced can be helpful in many ways. It is used when applying for a restraining order, petitioning for custody of children, or receiving financial support. It is also needed to apply for a new Social Security number. The following types of evidence can be used:

  • Police reports.
  • Medical reports.
  • Court restraining orders.
  • Letters from shelters.
  • Letters from family members, friends, counselors, or others who have knowledge of the abuse you experienced.

Blocking Access

If you know that your abusive partner has your Social Security information, you can request to block electronic access. By blocking electronic access, any automated telephone or electronic access is strictly prohibited, ensuring that your personal information remains secure and private. To block access to your records, call the toll-free number 1-800-772-1213.

Help is available.

Applying for a new Social Security number may seem overwhelming, but help is available.

You can contact the Social Security office online at www.ssa.gov. If you do not have internet access, you can call their 24/7 automated telephone line at 1-800-722-1213. The staff is available to answer questions from 7 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday.

These tips can help you safely contact the Social Security office if you are worried about your abusive partner finding out. You can also talk with advocates from the National Domestic Violence Hotline 24/7 through call, text, or chat. They can answer any questions and help you with a safety plan. You are not alone.