You also may review earnings posted to your record on your Social Security Statement (Form SSA-7005). The statement is mailed automatically each year to workers age 25 and older. You also can get a statement at any time by requesting one online or by calling our 800 number.

What if an identity thief is creating credit problems for you?

If someone has misused your social security number or other personal information to create credit or other problems for you, Social Security cannot resolve these problems. You should contact the Federal Trade Commission for help. Contact the Federal Trade Commission by: Internet or telephone by dialing 1-877-IDTHEFT ((877) 438-4338) (For hearing impaired, TTY, call (866) 653-4261.)

You also should monitor your credit report periodically. Free credit reports are available online

Should you get a new Social Security number?

If you have done all you can to fix the problems resulting from misuse of your Social Security number and someone still is using your number, we may assign you a new number.

You cannot get a new Social Security number: to avoid the consequences of filing for bankruptcy; if you intend to avoid the law or your legal responsibility; or if your Social Security card is lost or stolen, but there is no evidence that someone is using your number.

If you decide to apply for a new number, you will need to prove your age, U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status and identity. For more information, ask for your Social Security number and card (Publication Number 05-10002).

You also will need to provide evidence that you still are being disadvantaged by the misuse.

Keep in mind that a new number probably will not solve all your problems. This is because other governmental agencies (such as the Internal Revenue Service and state motor vehicle agencies) and private businesses (such as banks and credit reporting companies) likely will have records under your old number. Also, because credit reporting companies use the number, along with other personal information, to identify your credit record, using a new number will not guarantee you a fresh start. This is especially true if your other personal information, such as your name and address, remains the same.

If you receive a new Social Security number, you will not be able use the old number anymore.

For some victims of identity theft, a new number actually creates new problems. If the old credit information is not associated with the new number, the absence of any credit history under the new number may make it more difficult to get credit.

Contacting Social Security

The Internet is a valuable resource for information about all of Social Security’s programs. There are a number of things you can do online.

In addition to using the Web site, call toll-free at (800) 772-1213 or the TTY number, (800) 325-0778.