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Identity Theft

What to do if someone steals your ID

Identity Theft: Social Security Misuse

A Publication of the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse

12. Social Security number (SSN) misuse.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) does not in most cases provide assistance to identity theft victims. But be sure to contact the SSA Inspector General to report Social Security benefit fraud, employment fraud, or welfare fraud.

  • Social Security Administration online complaint form: www.socialsecurity.gov/oig
  •  SSA fraud hotline: (800) 269-0271
  •  By mail: SSA Fraud Hotline, P.O. Box 17768, Baltimore, MD 21235

As a last resort, you might try to change your number, although we don't recommend it except for very serious cases . The SSA will only change the number if you fit their fraud victim criteria. See the Identity Theft Resource Center's Fact Sheet 113 for more information, http://www.idtheftcenter.org/artman2/publish/v_fact_sheets/Fact_Sheet_113_Social_Security_Number.shtml

If your SSN card has been stolen or lost, order a replacement. Complete the SSA's application available at www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ss-5.html or by calling the SSA at (800) 772-1213, or by visiting your local SSA office. You will need to provide the required documentation such as birth certificate and government ID at your local SSA office to get a replacement card.

 

 

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