You can lock your Social Security number through a free service called the Social Security Number Misuse Prevention Act lock

Yes, you can lock your Social Security number to prevent someone else from using it to open accounts, get loans, or commit other fraud. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers a free lock service that you can turn on and off yourself through an online account or by phone. When your number is locked, businesses cannot use it to create new credit accounts or conduct certain financial transactions without your permission.

This lock is different from a credit freeze. A credit freeze stops credit bureaus from sharing your credit report with lenders. A Social Security number lock stops the SSA from issuing a new Social Security card or changing your records without your say-so. You can use both at the same time for extra protection.

Key Takeaways

  • The Social Security number lock is free and you control it yourself through your my Social Security account online or by calling 1-800-772-1213.
  • When locked, your number cannot be used to open new accounts or change your Social Security records without your permission.
  • You can unlock your number temporarily when you need to explore for credit, then lock it again right after.
  • A Social Security lock does not stop fraud on existing accounts, so you still need to monitor your credit reports and bank statements.
  • You should also place a credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) for complete protection.

How to lock your Social Security number online

To lock your number online, you need a my Social Security account. If you do not have one, you can create it at ssa.gov/myaccount. You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a way to prove who you are — usually a driver's license or state ID number, or answers to questions about your credit history.

Once you are logged in, look for the "Security" or "Lock Your Number" section. The exact wording changes, but it is usually near your account settings. Click to lock your number. The SSA will show you a confirmation code. Write this down or take a screenshot — you will need it if you want to unlock your number later. The lock takes effect right away.

If you do not have internet access or prefer to speak with someone, you can call the SSA at 1-800-772-1213. A representative can lock your number over the phone. You will need to answer questions to prove your identity. The process takes about 10 minutes.

When to unlock your number temporarily

You may need to unlock your number when you are explore for a mortgage, car loan, credit card, or other credit. Lenders often check with the SSA to verify your number and your identity. If your number is locked, the check may fail and the lender may deny your process.

Before you explore for credit, log into your my Social Security account and unlock your number. You can set a temporary unlock that lasts a certain number of days — usually 7, 14, or 30 days. Choose the length that matches when you expect the lender to check. Once the unlock period ends, your number locks automatically. If you finish early, you can lock it again right away through your account.

Some lenders may not know what a Social Security lock is. If a lender says they cannot work with a locked number, explain that you can unlock it temporarily. If they still refuse, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at consumerfinance.gov.

What a Social Security lock does and does not protect

A Social Security lock stops someone from using your number to open new credit accounts, get a new Social Security card in your name, or change your address or other information on file with the SSA. It is one of the strongest tools you have against identity theft.

A Social Security lock does not stop fraud on accounts you already have. If someone has your number and your password, they can still log into your existing bank account or credit card and drain it. A lock also does not stop someone from using your number to file a fake tax return or commit other types of fraud that do not involve the SSA or credit bureaus.

For this reason, you should also monitor your credit reports, check your bank and credit card statements regularly, and place a credit freeze with Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You can place a credit freeze for free at each bureau's website or by phone.

The difference between a Social Security lock and a credit freeze

A credit freeze tells the three major credit bureaus not to share your credit report with anyone without your permission. When a lender cannot see your credit report, they usually will not open a new account. A credit freeze is free and you can place one by visiting each bureau's website or calling them.

A Social Security lock works directly with the SSA and stops your number from being used to create new Social Security records or cards. It is a separate protection that works at the source — the SSA itself — rather than at the credit bureaus.

Both tools are free and you should use both. A credit freeze stops most credit fraud. A Social Security lock adds a second layer of protection and stops fraud that does not go through the credit bureaus, such as someone trying to get a new Social Security card or change your address with the SSA.

What to do if you think your Social Security number has been stolen

If you suspect someone has used your number without permission, lock your number right away through your my Social Security account or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Then place a credit freeze with all three credit bureaus. Check your credit reports at annualcreditreport.com — you get one free report from each bureau every year.

If you see accounts or charges you did not make, contact the creditor or bank right away and tell them about the fraud. Ask them to close the account and dispute the charges. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission at reportidentitytheft.ftc.gov. The FTC will create an identity theft report that you can use to prove the fraud to creditors and banks.

You may also want to file a police report, especially if the fraud is large or ongoing. Keep copies of all letters, emails, and notes from your calls. These documents help prove what happened if you need to dispute charges later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does locking my Social Security number hurt my credit score?

No. Locking your number does not affect your credit score. Your credit score is based on your payment history, how much credit you use, and other factors tracked by the credit bureaus. A Social Security lock only stops new accounts from being opened in your name without permission.

Can I lock someone else's Social Security number?

No. Only the person whose number it is can lock it. If you are a caregiver or power of attorney for someone else, you may be able to lock their number if you have their permission and proof of your authority, but you will need to contact the SSA directly at 1-800-772-1213 to ask about your specific situation.

What if I forget my confirmation code when I try to unlock my number?

You can still unlock your number without the code. Log into your my Social Security account and go to the lock section. You will answer identity questions to prove who you are, then you can unlock your number. If you cannot log in, call 1-800-772-1213 and a representative can help you unlock it over the phone.

Will a Social Security lock stop someone from filing taxes in my name?

A Social Security lock does not stop tax fraud directly, but it makes it harder. Someone filing a fake return in your name still needs your number, but the lock shows the IRS that you are protecting your identity. If you think someone filed taxes using your number, contact the IRS at irs.gov or call 1-800-829-1040.

Can I lock my child's Social Security number?

Yes. You can lock your child's number if you are their parent or legal guardian. You will need to create a my Social Security account using their number and prove your identity. Contact the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 if you need help setting up an account for a minor.