What to Do If Your Social Security Number Is Stolen

If your Social Security card or number (SSN) is lost or stolen, you should immediately contact your local police department and the Social Security Administration (call toll-free 1-800-772-1213) to let them know about the incident.

1. How do I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number?
2. What happens if someone has your Social Security number?
3. Would you get a call if your Social Security number is stolen?
4. Should I be worried if someone has my Social Security number?
5. Can someone access my bank account with my Social Security number?
6. How do I lock my SSN?
7. What can someone do with your last 4 digits of SSN?
8. Can I change my SSN?
9. Can your Social Security number be Cancelled?
10. How do I know if someone has stolen my identity?

How do I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number?

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/.

What happens if someone has your Social Security number?

A dishonest person who has your Social Security number can use it to get other personal information about you. Identity thieves can use your number and your good credit to apply for more credit in your name. ... The Social Security Administration protects your Social Security number and keeps your records confidential.

Would you get a call if your Social Security number is stolen?

You can also call Social Security's Fraud Hotline at 800-269-0271. If your Social Security number has been stolen, file an identify theft report with the Federal Trade Commission, which can help you develop a recovery plan.

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.

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

Thieves might have a difficult time accessing your bank account if they only knew your Social Security number. Most of the time, to either access an existing account or open up a new bank account, the bank would require additional forms of identification, such as your physical Social Security card, Real ID or passport.

How do I lock my SSN?

To access Self Lock, you must be logged in to your myE-Verify account. To lock your SSN, you must enter your SSN and date of birth. myE-Verify does not store your SSN when you create your account, so you must provide your SSN to "lock" it. In addition, you must select and answer three challenge questions.

What can someone do with your last 4 digits of SSN?

Scammers can use different ways and means to steal your identity by using the last 4 digits of SSN and DOB. With this information in their hands, they can steal your money, create credit card accounts, take away your hard-earned benefits, and use your name for illegal transactions.

Can I change my SSN?

The Social Security Administration generally does not encourage or allow you to change your Social Security number, except under certain circumstances. You can change your SSN if you can prove that using your existing number will cause you harm, such as in cases of abuse or harassment.

Can your Social Security number be Cancelled?

— No, your Social Security number cannot be suspended, revoked, frozen or blocked. It anyone tells you that, hang up immediately. ... But just to make sure it's truly the SSA calling you back, hang up and call SSA's main number at (800) 772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778).

How do I know if someone has stolen my identity?

How to check if your identity has been stolen

1. Check your credit card statements and bank account. If you notice any suspicious activity, alert your bank or credit union right away. ...
2. Run a credit report. U.S. citizens are entitled to a free one every 12 months. ...
3. Monitor your finances closely.