How to get back your stolen SSN
Your Social Security Number is used to track and identify you all over your financial and personal life. Initially, the Social Security number was created as a way to track your working hours to qualify you for retirement, medical benefits, and tax purposes. It is now used to track your creditworthiness, insurance profile, and even records and healthcare services. Although your SSN is your calling card identifier, you rarely need to show it physically, and also we have shared how to get back your stolen SSN if your social security card is missing or stolen.
If your Social Security Card is missing
If you have lost your card, you’ll need to start replacing your card immediately.
Here is how:
Register online at www.ssa.gov for an MY SSA account. Collect the documents to get a replacement passport. You must provide at least two of the following documents:
- U.S. birth certificate
- U.S. passport
- Hospital record of your birth
- License
- Government-issued ID card
If you satisfy specific criteria, you may be eligible to apply for an online replacement card from Social Security. If you can not apply online, you are expected to visit a Social Security office. So, track your credit use periodically to ensure that, if your card is compromised, you are not a victim of identity theft.
If your Social Security Card is stolen
In case, if your card has been stolen, it is even more vital that you work by closely monitoring your credit reports and freeze your credit to minimize the potential effects of ID theft and misuse. If your SSC is stolen, you need to do the following steps immediately.
- Immediately file a complaint to the police. However, if your credit card is stolen, you may need a police report number to access services like a credit lock, or bank restitution.
- Call the Social Security Administration for reporting the theft: 1-800-772-1213
- Register for an MY SSA account at the Social Security website.
- When you call to report the theft, apply for a Social Security replacement card. Before receiving a replacement card, you will be required to present your identity and citizenship documentation.
How to Save Your Social Security Card
- Keeping your social security card under lock is necessary for the overall health of your medical and financial lives. It is time to focus in the future on protecting your card.
- A watertight and fireproof secure, as well as other essential documents, can be a good choice to keep your Social Security card protected. Therefore, ask your bank for a safe deposit box if you would be away for an extended period from home.
- Never carry a Social Security card with you if you go out of the home. It should be kept secure at home unless required.
- To keep your Social Security number secure online, in email and over the phone, follow safe procedures.
- For handling all documents containing your Social Security and financial records, buy a shredder or use a free shredding service.
