Your Social Security number is a nine-digit identifier the federal government assigns to track your earnings, taxes, and benefits
A Social Security number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit code issued by the Social Security Administration. The government uses it to keep records of your work history, the taxes you and your employers have paid, and any benefits you may receive — including retirement, disability, or survivor benefits. You receive one number when you are born or when you first become authorized to work in the United States, and it stays the same for your entire life.
The number itself has three parts: the first three digits (the area number), the middle two digits (the group number), and the last four digits (the serial number). The pattern used to reflect where you applied for the number, but that is no longer true — the Social Security Administration now assigns numbers randomly.
Key Takeaways
- Your Social Security number is issued once and does not change, even if you move, change jobs, or marry.
- The government uses your number to track your work history and the payroll taxes you have paid throughout your life.
- Your earnings record under your Social Security number determines how much retirement or disability benefit you may receive.
- You should protect your Social Security number because it can be used to open accounts or commit fraud in your name.
How the Social Security Administration uses your number
Every time you work, your employer reports your earnings to the Social Security Administration under your Social Security number. The agency keeps a running record of all the wages you have earned and all the payroll taxes (called FICA taxes) that have been withheld from your paychecks. This record is called your earnings record.
When you reach retirement age — currently 62 at the earliest, though your full retirement age depends on your birth year — the Social Security Administration uses your earnings record to calculate how much your monthly retirement benefit will be. The same record is used if you become disabled and file for disability benefits, or if your family members file for survivor benefits after you die. Without an accurate earnings record under your number, you would not receive the correct benefit amount.
Why you need a Social Security number
You need a Social Security number to work legally in the United States. Your employer uses it to report your wages and withhold taxes. Banks and credit card companies use it to check your credit history. The IRS uses it to match your tax return to your earnings record. State and federal benefit programs use it to verify your identity and prevent fraud.
Even if you do not work, you may need a Social Security number to open a bank account, get a loan, or receive government benefits. If you were born in the United States, you should have been assigned a number at birth or shortly after. If you were not, you can request one from your local Social Security office.
Protecting your Social Security number from misuse
Your Social Security number is sensitive information. Someone who has your number can potentially open credit accounts in your name, take out loans, file fraudulent tax returns, or commit other forms of identity theft. For this reason, you should not share your number unless there is a clear business reason — such as with your employer, your bank, or a government agency.
Be cautious about giving your number over the phone or online unless you initiated the contact and you are certain you are dealing with a legitimate organization. The Social Security Administration itself will never call you unexpectedly or threaten you with arrest. If someone claims to be from Social Security and threatens legal action, it is a scam.
If you believe your Social Security number has been stolen or misused, you can report it to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov or call 1-877-438-4338. You can also contact the Social Security Administration directly at 1-800-772-1213 to report fraud.
What happens if you lose or damage your Social Security card
Your Social Security card is a physical document that shows your number, but the number itself is what matters — losing the card does not change your number or affect your benefits. You can request a replacement card from your local Social Security office or online through the Social Security Administration website.
You will need to show proof of identity (such as a driver's license or passport) and proof of citizenship or legal residency. There is no charge for a replacement card. If your card has been stolen along with other personal information, consider reporting the theft to protect yourself against identity fraud.
How your Social Security number connects to your benefits
Your Social Security number is the link between you and your lifetime earnings record. When you turn 62, you can request a benefit estimate from the Social Security Administration, which will show you how much your retirement benefit would be at different ages. This estimate is based entirely on the earnings recorded under your number.
If there are errors in your earnings record — such as wages that were not reported or were reported under the wrong name or number — your benefit will be lower than it should be. You can review your earnings record online through your personal my Social Security account, or you can request a paper statement by calling 1-800-772-1213.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my Social Security number?
The Social Security Administration can issue a new number in rare cases, such as if your number has been stolen and used for fraud, or if you are experiencing harassment. You must provide evidence of the problem and show that you have already taken steps to resolve it. A new number is not issued straightforward because you want one.
What if my earnings record has a mistake?
You can review your earnings record through your my Social Security account online or by requesting a paper statement. If you find an error, contact the Social Security Administration with proof of the correct earnings (such as old tax returns or W-2 forms). Corrections are usually made within a few weeks, but it is best to report errors as soon as you notice them.
Do I need to carry my Social Security card with me?
No. You only need to show your card when you are explore for a job, opening a bank account, or dealing with a government agency. You do not need to carry it in your wallet every day. In fact, keeping it at home in a safe place reduces the risk of it being lost or stolen.
What if I never worked — do I still have a Social Security number?
If you were born in the United States, you were assigned a number at birth. If you never worked, your earnings record will be empty, which means you would not be may have access to to retirement or disability benefits based on your own work history. However, you may be may have access to to benefits as a spouse or survivor of someone who did work.
Can someone use my Social Security number without my knowledge?
Yes, which is why identity theft is a serious concern. Someone could use your number to open accounts, file tax returns, or explore for benefits in your name. If you suspect this has happened, report it to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov and contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to report fraud.