Social Security Number Errors on Your Record

Your Social Security number connects you to your work history, your taxes, and any benefits you may receive. When something on that record is wrong, the effects can show up in unexpected places: a job application, a tax filing, a benefit claim, or a bank account. Most errors can be fixed through the Social Security Administration (SSA), but it helps to know where to start.

This guide covers common problems and the general steps for fixing them. It is general information, not advice about your record.

Common kinds of errors

Problems with a Social Security record tend to fall into a few groups:

• Name mismatches. Your name changed after marriage, divorce, or a court order, but SSA's record still shows the old name. Or a name was misspelled when the record was created.
• Date of birth or other personal details. A typo in a birth date or other identifying information.
• Citizenship or immigration status. Your status changed, but the record was not updated.
• Number mix-ups. An employer, bank, or agency recorded your number with a digit wrong, or used someone else's number.
• Possible misuse. Someone else may be using your number, which can show up as unknown income or accounts.

Each problem has a different fix. The first step is to figure out where the error actually sits: on SSA's record, on your card, or in another organization's files.

Correcting your card and SSA record

USAGov's page on how to get, replace, or correct a Social Security card explains a few key points:

• Corrections go through the replacement process. To change vital information on your card, such as your name, you follow the card replacement process.
• Replacement cards are free. You should not have to pay SSA for a replacement or correction.
• You may be able to apply online or in person, depending on your situation. SSA's tools walk you through which option fits.

Because you are asking SSA to change official information, expect to show documents that prove both who you are and what the correct information is. For a name change, that is often the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. SSA lists the documents it accepts for each kind of change. Bring originals or certified copies if SSA asks for them.

After SSA updates its record, update the same information with your employer and other places that use your number, such as banks.

Updating your name with other agencies

USAGov's family legal issues page notes that after a name change, you should update your new name with the agencies that need it, including SSA and your state motor vehicle office. Doing SSA first often makes the other updates easier, because many offices check your name against SSA's records.

When an employer or other organization has it wrong

Sometimes SSA's record is fine, but someone else recorded your number incorrectly. Examples include a payroll department, a school, or a lender. In these cases:

• Ask the organization to check the number it has on file against your card.
• Ask for a corrected document if one was issued with the wrong number.
• Keep copies of what you sent and what you got back.

If an error affected how your earnings were reported, your work history with SSA may also be incomplete. Earnings records can matter later for benefit amounts and eligibility, so it is worth fixing errors when you find them.

If you think someone is using your number

Unknown jobs, accounts, or tax records under your number can be a sign of identity theft. Act quickly:

• Contact SSA about the record.
• Report identity theft through the federal government's resources, which USAGov can point you to.
• Watch your credit reports and accounts for activity you do not recognize.

Identity theft can touch several agencies at once. Keep a log of every contact, including dates, names, and reference numbers.

How errors can affect benefits

Errors on your record can cause problems when you apply for benefits. For example, if your name does not match, an application can be delayed. If earnings are missing, a benefit calculation could be lower than it should be. These issues can also come up with Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). The USAGov page on SSDI and SSI explains that you can create a free "my Social Security" account to manage your benefits online and update your name, address, and other information.

Contacting SSA

USAGov lists SSA's main phone number on its incorrect benefit payments page: 1-800-772-1213 (TTY: 1-800-325-0778). You can also contact your local Social Security office. When you call:

• Have your card and supporting documents ready.
• Write down who you spoke with and what they told you.
• Ask what will confirm the correction is complete, such as a new card or a letter.

When legal help may make sense

Most record corrections do not need a lawyer. Legal help may be worth considering if:

• A record error is blocking or reducing a benefit claim.
• Your immigration or citizenship status is part of the problem.
• Identity theft has led to debts, tax problems, or court cases in your name.
• SSA has refused a correction and you believe you have the documents to support it.

Lawyers who handle Social Security disability matters often work with SSA records. For free or low-cost help, see the USAGov legal aid page.

Frequently asked questions

Does it cost money to correct my Social Security card?

USAGov says Social Security card replacements are free, and corrections go through the replacement process. Be cautious of anyone who charges a fee to "fix" your card.

Will I get a new Social Security number?

A correction usually changes information on your record, not the number itself. A new number is a separate and less common request, handled by SSA under its own rules.

Do I need to update my employer after a correction?

Yes, it is a good idea. Give your employer your corrected name or details so future earnings are reported correctly.

What if my child's number has an error?

The same general steps apply. Contact SSA with documents showing the correct information, such as a birth certificate.

Related: Browse more legal guides and Social Security disability lawyers.

General information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different — talk to a licensed attorney about your situation.