Although Social Security does not routinely assign new numbers, they will do so to help protect you when evidence shows you are being harassed or abused or your life is endangered.

Applying for a new number is a big decision. It may impact your ability to interact with federal and state agencies, employers and others. This is because your financial, medical, employment and other records will be under your former Social Security number and name (if you change your name). If you expect to change your name, Social Security recommends you do so before applying for a new number.

To get a new number, you must apply in person at any Social Security office and complete:

• A statement explaining why you need a new number; and
• An  Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5).

Social Security will help you to obtain the needed evidence, including:

• Evidence documenting the harassment or abuse;
• Original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency establishing your:
• U.S. citizenship or immigration status;
• Age;
• Identity; and
• Evidence of your legal name change if you have changed your name.

Also, you will need documents showing you have custody of any children for whom you are requesting new numbers and documentation proving their U.S. citizenship, ages and identities.

For more information, see New Numbers For Domestic Violence Victims (Publication No. 05-10093).