New Numbers For Domestic Violence Victims

People in all walks of life can be victims of family violence or harassment, abuse or life-endangering situations in their daily lives. If you are a victim of family violence, Social Security may be able to help you.

Public awareness campaigns stress how important it is for victims to develop safety plans that include gathering personal papers and choosing a safe place to go. Sometimes the best way to evade an abuser and reduce the risk of further violence may be to relocate and establish a new identity. Following these changes, it also may be helpful to get a new Social Security number.

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

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How to apply for a new number

You must apply in person at any Social Security office. We will help you complete:

• A statement explaining why you need a new number; and

• An application for a new number.

You will need to present:

• Your current Social Security number;

• Original documents establishing your age, identity and United States citizenship or lawful noncitizen status, such as a birth certificate and a driver’s license;

• One or more documents identifying you by both your old and new names if you have changed your name (as the Department of Justice recommends);

• Evidence showing you have custody of children for whom you are requesting new numbers; and

• Evidence documenting the harassment or abuse.

We will help you get any additional evidence that is needed.

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Providing the evidence you need

The best evidence of abuse comes from third parties, such as police, medical facilities or doctors, and describes the nature and extent of harassment, abuse or life endangerment.

Other evidence may include court restraining orders and letters from shelters, family members, friends, counselors or others who have knowledge of the domestic violence or abuse.

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