Social Security Number: Can someone have the same SSN as me? (2024)

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The Social Security Number is very important and is the identification for many procedures, but can someone else have the same number as me?

How can I get a Social Security number and card?

If you are an immigrant, there are two ways to apply:

- You can apply with the U.S. Department of State in your home country before coming to the U.S. when applying for a visa as an immigrant. In the vast majority of cases, if you apply for your Social Security number and card at the same time you apply for your immigrant visa, you do not have to visit a Social Security office when you arrive in the U.S.

- If you are legally in the U.S, you should contact your local Social Security office. See the section below explaining the documents you must show when you visit the Social Security office. If you are in the U.S. as a nonimmigrant, but do not have permission to work, you can apply in two ways, depending on the type of visa you have.

- If you are lawfully in the U.S. and you file an application for work authorization or permanent resident status with DHS, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you can apply for a Social Security number or replacement card. This can be done through the same USCIS application form I-765 (Application for Lawful Permanent Residence or Adjustment of Status) with Form I-485 (Application for Lawful Permanent Residence or Adjustment of Status).

- If you are lawfully in the U.S. and your visa allows you to work in the U.S., then you need to contact your local Social Security office to apply for the SSN and card.

Can the SSN be duplicated?

There are millions of people who have SSNs, and some people think it is unique, but it is not, your number can match several people.

Out of 119 people, there is a 50% chance that two of them will have the same last 4 digits in their SSN.

Out of 180 people, there is a 80% chance that two of them will have the same last 4 digits in their SSN.

Out of 300 people, then there is more than 99% probability that two of them will have the same number.

One typical pattern: An imposter uses one name but alternate Social Security numbers in an attempt to circumvent the credit reporting system; ID Analytics is geared up to spot just that kind of evasion. It's a tough job, because the incidence of multiple numbers connected to the same name is enormous: Dr. Stephen Coggeshall, chief technology officer at the firm, said 20 million Americans have multiple SSNs associated with their names, or 6 percent of the total population.

Social Security Number: Can someone have the same SSN as me? (2024)

FAQs

Social Security Number: Can someone have the same SSN as me? ›

There are millions of people who have SSNs, and some people think it is unique, but it is not, your number can match several people. Out of 119 people, there is a 50% chance that two of them will have the same last 4 digits in their SSN.

Can someone else have the same SSN as me? ›

In rare cases, the SSA might accidentally assign the same SSN to multiple people.

Can SSN be shared? ›

Also, be careful about sharing your number, even when you're asked for it. You should ask why your number is needed, how it'll be used, and what will happen if you refuse. If you know your Social Security information has been compromised, you can request to Block Electronic Access.

Can someone have my Social Security number? ›

Social Security number identity theft occurs when someone gains unauthorized access to your SSN. For example, a scammer might steal your wallet, purse or mail, rummage through your trash or pose as an employer, government agency or someone else who legitimately needs your personal information.

How do I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number? ›

Contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at 1-800-908-4490 or visit them online, if you believe someone is using your SSN to work, get your tax refund, or other abuses involving taxes. Order free credit reports annually from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).

Can a person have 2 SSN? ›

1401.7Can a person have more than one SSN? Most persons have only one SSN. In certain limited situations, SSA can assign you a new number. If you receive a new SSN, you should use the new number.

How much does it cost to change your Social Security number? ›

There is no charge for correcting your Social Security card or getting one for the first time.

Can I lock my SSN online? ›

Self Lock is the unique feature that lets you protect your identity in E-Verify and Self Check by placing a "lock" in E-Verify on your Social Security number (SSN). This helps prevent anyone else from using your SSN for an E-Verify case.

What can someone do with the last 4 digits of your SSN? ›

Unfortunately, yes. Many banks, government agencies, and other financial institutions only ask for the last four digits to confirm your identity. With those four digits, plus a bit more of your personal information, scammers could open accounts, access your bank, or apply for benefits in your name.

Can you change your SSN? ›

The Social Security Administration does allow you to change your number, but only under limited circ*mstances, such as identity theft or if your safety is in danger. You will also need to supply appropriate documentation to support your application for a new number. Social Security Administration.

How to look up a Social Security number? ›

How to find your Social Security number
  1. Look at your card. Checking your Social Security card is the fastest way to find your SSN. ...
  2. Talk to someone who might know your SSN. ...
  3. Check tax and financial documents. ...
  4. Contact a former employer. ...
  5. Request a new Social Security card.
Sep 12, 2023

Can you look someone up using SSN? ›

You'll notice that you're only able to get the user's full name if they're deceased. This is a cautionary detail to make sure you're not able to steal someone's identity just by looking up their Social Security Number. However, you can use an SSN reverse lookup to verify someone's information.

What can someone see with your Social Security number? ›

Each time an individual divulges his or her SSN, the potential for a thief to illegitimately gain access to bank accounts, credit cards, driving records, tax and employment histories and other private information increases.

Is it legal to use someone else's SSN? ›

What happens if someone uses a fake SSN to work? Using a fake SSN is a crime, which can lead to jail time and deportation from the United States.

Does your SSN have to match your name? ›

Answer: When you file your return, check that both your name and SSN agree with your social security card to prevent any delays in processing your return and issuing any refunds.

Can a person request a new SSN? ›

The Social Security Administration does allow you to change your number, but only under limited circ*mstances, such as identity theft or if your safety is in danger. You will also need to supply appropriate documentation to support your application for a new number. Social Security Administration.

Can social security numbers be reused? ›

To date, 453.7 million different numbers have been issued. Q20: Are Social Security numbers reused after a person dies? A: No. We do not reassign a Social Security number (SSN) after the number holder's death.

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