What to Do If Your Social Security Card Gets Stolen
Dealing with the theft of your Social Security card can be a distressing experience, but it’s important to act quickly to minimize the potential damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if your Social Security card gets stolen.
1. Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA)
The first step is to contact the SSA to report the theft. You can do this by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or by visiting their website at www.ssa.gov. When you report the theft, you will need to provide your name, date of birth, Social Security number, and any other relevant information to verify your identity.
2. File a police report
It’s essential to file a police report as soon as possible after discovering that your Social Security card has been stolen. This report will serve as a crucial document if you need to dispute fraudulent transactions or if an identity thief attempts to use your information. Keep a copy of the police report for your records.
3. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports
Placing a fraud alert on your credit reports can help prevent identity thieves from opening new accounts in your name. You can do this by contacting one of the three major credit bureaus: Equifax (1-800-525-6285), Experian (1-888-397-3742), or TransUnion (1-800-680-7289). By placing a fraud alert, you will receive a free credit report from each bureau, which can help you monitor for any suspicious activity.
4. Review your credit reports
Regularly review your credit reports for any signs of fraudulent activity. You can request a free credit report from each of the three credit bureaus once a year at www.annualcreditreport.com. If you notice any discrepancies or unauthorized accounts, report them immediately to the credit bureaus and the companies that issued the credit.
5. Consider placing a credit freeze
A credit freeze can prevent identity thieves from opening new accounts in your name. You can place a credit freeze on your credit reports by contacting each of the three credit bureaus. This process may vary by state, so it’s important to check the specific instructions for your location. Keep in mind that a credit freeze may not prevent all types of fraudulent activity, such as existing accounts that may already be compromised.
6. Monitor your financial accounts
7. Update your passwords and security questions
Change your passwords and security questions for any online accounts that use your Social Security number. This includes financial accounts, email, and other sensitive information. Use strong, unique passwords and consider using a password manager to keep track of them.
8. Stay vigilant
Even after taking these steps, it’s important to remain vigilant about your personal information. Be cautious about sharing your Social Security number and other sensitive information, and keep an eye out for any signs of identity theft.
By following these steps, you can help minimize the impact of your Social Security card being stolen and protect yourself from potential identity theft. Remember, it’s always better to act quickly and be proactive in protecting your personal information.
