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Tip: Does the SSA Investigate Identity Theft?

Posted on Oct 28, 2006 by Tom Fragala

Question: Does the Social Security Administration investigate identity theft related to your social security number? It seems logical they might, especially since ID theft related to your SSN is the most likely way to fall victim.

Answer: No they do not. Don't waste your time contacting them if you are a victim. The only exceptions are if there is fraud related to your benefits or benefit checks are being stolen. In that case, the SSA would get involved through their Office of the Inspector General (OIG). And if you SSN card was lost or stolen and you want to get a replacement.

Bonus tip: should you consider getting a new SSN if you are a severe ID theft victim? In virtually all cases, the answer is a resounding NO. Not only could it make things far worse for you in other ways, but sometimes your old SSN is linked to your new one anyway. If anyone wants me to provide more detail on this, leave a comment, and I will do so.