The fastest way to change your address with Social Security
You can change your address with Social Security online, by phone, or in person at a local office. The online method is fastest — you can update it when ready through your my Social Security account if you have one set up. If you do not have an online account, you can call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and speak to a representative, or visit your nearest Social Security office in person with proof of your new address.
Social Security does not automatically know when you move. If you receive benefits or have a Social Security account, updating your address prevents mail from going to the wrong place and keeps your records accurate. The process takes just a few minutes, and you do not need to bring any documents if you use the online or phone method — though you will need to verify your identity.
Key Takeaways
- You can update your address online through my Social Security, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a local Social Security office in person.
- The online method is the fastest option and takes effect when ready if you have already created a my Social Security account.
- If you call or visit in person, bring a document showing your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement.
- Social Security will not automatically update your address when you move, so you must report the change yourself to avoid missed mail.
- If you receive benefits, updating your address quickly helps prevent payment delays or mail sent to the wrong location.
Updating your address online through my Social Security
If you already have a my Social Security account, log in and select "Contact Information" from the dashboard. Click "Change Address" and enter your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code. You will need to verify your identity by answering security questions or using a one-time code sent to your email or phone. Once you confirm the change, your address updates right away.
If you do not have a my Social Security account yet, you can create one at ssa.gov/myaccount. You will need your Social Security number, email address, and a way to verify your identity — either a U.S. mobile phone number, email address, or answers to questions based on your credit history. Creating the account takes about 10 minutes, and then you can update your address when ready.
Changing your address by phone
Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern time. Have your Social Security number ready. A representative will ask you to confirm your identity by answering questions about your personal history, then ask for your new address. The change takes effect within a few days.
Phone lines are often busy, especially early in the week and early in the month. If you reach a long wait time, consider calling back later in the day or later in the week. You can also ask the automated system to call you back instead of waiting on hold.
Changing your address in person at a Social Security office
Visit your local Social Security office with a document showing your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government-issued ID with your new address on it. Bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number on it. You do not need an appointment at most offices, though some locations now ask you to schedule one online or by phone first.
Find your nearest office at ssa.gov/locator or call 1-800-772-1213 to ask for the address and hours. Processing times vary by office, but your address change typically takes effect within one to two weeks.
What documents you need for each method
| Method | Documents Needed | How Long It Takes |
|---|---|---|
| Online (my Social Security account) | None — identity verified through security questions or code | when ready |
| Phone | None — identity verified through personal history questions | A few days |
| In person at office | Proof of new address (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement) and Social Security card or number | One to two weeks |
Why you should update your address right away
If you receive Social Security benefits, your payment notice and other important mail goes to the address on file. If you do not update it, you may miss notices about changes to your benefits, requests for information, or updates to your account. Some seniors have missed benefit payments or had their benefits held up because mail went to an old address.
If you have a my Social Security account, updating your address also makes sure you receive email notifications about your account activity. This helps you spot fraud or unauthorized changes quickly. Even if you do not receive benefits yet, updating your address keeps your Social Security record accurate for when you do.
What to do if you moved out of the country
If you moved to another country, the process is different. You will need to contact Social Security directly by phone at 1-800-772-1213 or visit a U.S. embassy or consulate in the country where you now live. Some countries have Social Security offices or representatives who can help you update your address. Social Security may ask you to provide proof of your new address and may need to verify your continued residence periodically.
If you receive benefits and move outside the United States, your benefits may be affected depending on your citizenship status and the country you move to. Contact Social Security before you move to understand how your benefits will change.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take Social Security to update my address?
Online updates take effect when ready. Phone updates usually take a few days. In-person updates at an office typically take one to two weeks. The time depends on how busy the office is and whether they need to verify any information.
Do I need to update my address if I do not receive benefits?
You do not have to, but it is a good idea. Keeping your address current ensures Social Security has accurate information on file for when you do claim benefits. If you have a my Social Security account, updating your address also helps protect your account from fraud.
What if I moved and did not update my address — will my benefits stop?
Your benefits will not stop automatically, but you may miss important mail from Social Security. If Social Security tries to contact you and the mail is returned as undeliverable, they may freeze your account or hold your payment until they reach you. Update your address as soon as you move to avoid this.
Can I change my address for someone else, like a family member?
No. Social Security will only update the address for the person whose Social Security number is being used. If you are helping a family member, they will need to update their own address or give you power of attorney. You can help them make the call or visit the office, but they must verify their identity.
What if I do not have a document showing my new address?
If you are updating online or by phone, you do not need a document — identity verification happens through security questions. If you are visiting an office in person and do not have a utility bill or lease, ask the office what other documents they accept. Some offices accept letters from government agencies, employer statements, or other official mail with your name and address on it.