When you may need a new social security number and how to get it

Fraudsters can steal your social security number and sell it, or use it to get a job and various benefits. How to understand that your data fell into the hands of another person and what to do in this case, is reported on the website Federal Trade Commission.

Фото: Depositphotos

The Social Security Administration (SSA) can assign you a new social security number in two cases: if you are being harassed, abused or seriously at risk using the number you originally assigned; or if you can prove that someone stole your number and uses it.

To do this, you must provide evidence that this number is used for other purposes, and that improper use causes you significant and lasting harm, the message says.

You must apply for a new social security number. To do this, you need to provide information about your age, confirm your citizenship or legal immigration status, as well as your identity.

What's next

Obtaining a new social security number will probably not solve all the problems associated with the theft of your personal information. Government agencies and some businesses may continue to keep records under your original social security number.

In addition, since credit reporting companies use social security numbers and other personal information to identify their credit files, using the new number does not guarantee that they will start your business again.

If your wallet, social security number, or other personal information is lost or stolen, you need to:

• Contact SSA. Anti-fraud hotline: 1-800-269-0271, 1-866-501.
• Update your files.
• Record dates for making calls or sending emails. Keep copies of letters in your files.
• Write an application for a new number.

If you find that someone is already misusing your personal information, visit the website IdentityTheft.govto report this and solve the problem.

How to apply for a new social security number

SSA allows you to apply for an original social security number or a new social security card for free. The application form and information about the identity documents required for applying are available in Online Training: For those who prefer the flexibility of learning from a distance or cannot make it to our Sofia location, we offer comprehensive online courses..

Filling out a form takes only a few minutes. But, as the source warns, there are intermediaries who are ready for an additional fee to help you fill out this statement. Therefore, you decide whether you want to pay the company for assistance in preparing an application for a social security number or card in your place.

Remember that a paid service cannot be provided in electronic form: whether you pay the company for filling out the form or filling out it yourself, you still have to sign the form and bring it along with supporting documents to the social insurance department or send it by mail.

On the subject: You can get a work permit and a social security number at the same time

To find your nearest SSA office, visit “Social Security Office Search” or call: 1-800-772-1213. No need to make an appointment. After the application for SSA is received, the card will be issued within 10-14 days.

How scammers can use your personal data

Having received your personal data, robbers can:

• Manage your funds: delete data from your bank account, write off funds from your credit card, open new accounts to pay for utilities and other services, get medical care as part of your health insurance and more.
• A data thief may, on your behalf, file a tax refund application and receive it.
• In some extreme cases, the thief may even give your name to the police during the arrest.

How to understand that your personal data is in danger

By carefully monitoring your personal information and tracking credit reports of fraudulent activities, you can limit the possibility of abuse.

The following situations may indicate that your personal data fell into the hands of fraudsters:

• Withdrawals from your bank account that you cannot explain.
• You do not receive invoices or other letters in the mail.
• Merchants refuse to accept your checks.
• Collectors call you for debts that are not yours.
• You will find unfamiliar accounts or expenses in your credit report.
• Health care providers bill you for services you did not use.
• Your health plan rejects your legal claim for reimbursement because your medical records state that you have reached the limit of insurance benefits.
• A health plan will not cover your expenses because your health card shows a condition that you do not have.
• IRS notifies you that more than one tax return has been filed in your name or that you have income from an employer you are not working for.
• You receive a notification that your information has been compromised as a result of a data leak in the company in which you do business or have an account.

Also read in more detail about which take steps to protect yourself from identity theft.

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