The Social Security Administration (SSA) is changing the way Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are issued. This change is referred to as “randomization.” The SSA is developing this new method to help protect the integrity of the SSN. SSN Randomization will also extend the longevity of the nine-digit SSN nationwide.

The SSA began assigning the nine-digit SSN in 1936 for the purpose of tracking workers’ earnings over the course of their lifetimes to pay benefits. Since its inception, the SSN has always been comprised of the three-digit area number, followed by the two-digit group number, and ending with the four-digit serial number. Since 1972, the SSA has issued Social Security cards centrally and the area number reflects the state, as determined by the ZIP code in the mailing address of the application.

There are currently 435 million numbers available for assignment. However, the current SSN assignment process limits the number of SSNs that are available for issuance to individuals by each state. Changing the assignment methodology will extend the longevity of the nine digit SSN in all states.

SSN randomization will affect the SSN assignment process in the following ways:

* It will eliminate the geographical significance of the first three digits of the SSN, currently referred to as the area number, by no longer allocating the area numbers for assignment to individuals in specific states.

* It will eliminate the significance of the highest group number and, as a result, the High Group List will be frozen in time and can be used for validation of SSNs issued prior to the randomization implementation date.

* Previously unassigned area numbers will be introduced for assignment excluding area numbers 000, 666 and 900-999.

Generally, Social Security only assigns one number to an individual. They use that number to record an individual’s earnings so that they 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;
•A victim of identity theft continues to be disadvantaged by using the original number; or
•Situations of harassment, abuse or life endangerment (including domestic violence).

When Social Security assigns a new number, they do not void or delete the original number. For integrity reasons, they cross-reference 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

•Take this and the following to the Social Security local office with documents proving:

U.S. citizenship (or immigration status and work eligibility);
Identity; and
Evidence to support your need for a new number

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