Generally, Social Security assigns only one Social Security number to an individual. Social Security uses that number to record the individual’s earnings so that Social Security can determine future benefits and, eventually, to track benefits paid. Only under the following circumstances can Social Security assign a different number:

• Sequential numbers assigned to members of the same family are causing problems;
• More than one person has been assigned, or is using, the same number;
• An individual has religious or cultural objections to certain numbers or digits in the original number; (See "Can I request a new SSN because I object to digits used?")
• A victim of identity theft continues to be disadvantaged by using the original number; (See Identity Theft And Your Social Security Number, Publication No. 05-10064.) or
• Situations of harassment, abuse or life endangerment (including domestic violence). (See New Numbers For Domestic Violence Victims, Publication No. 05-10093.)

When Social Security assigns a new number, they do not void or delete the original number. For integrity reasons, Social Security cross-references all the numbers assigned to the same individual.
To apply for a different number:

• Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5); and
• Show documents proving:
  • U.S. citizenship (or immigration status and work eligibility); and
  • Identity.
• Show evidence to support your need for a new number.
• Take your completed application and documents to your local Social Security office.

All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Social Security cannot accept photocopies or notarized copies of documents.

For more information, see Documents You Need for a Social Security Card.