Changing Your Identity / Fleeing from Abuser

The Social Security Administration allows victims of abuse to apply for a new Social Security number (SSN), which could possibly make it harder for an abuser to find a person if they have moved for safety. Changing one’s SSN is a big decision and can have a big impact, so it’s important for a victim of abuse to carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages before applying. For this reason, it’s generally a good idea for a survivor considering changing their SSN to first talk to an attorney, if possible, or a domestic violence advocate. You can use our website to find lawyers and advocates in your area [UPDATE FOR THE STATE].

One important thing to consider is that it is very hard for a person to completely change their identity. If someone does successfully change their name and SSN, that person may also lose their past work history, which can affect one’s ability to qualify for Social Security benefits later in life, which takes work history into account. You may want to check with a lawyer who practices in this area to find out for sure whether or not you would lose your work history if you changed your SSN. It is also hard to completely erase one’s tracks.

The Social Security Administration website has information about new Social Security numbers for domestic violence victims (this link opens a PDF document). This resource describes the option of obtaining a new SSN for victims of domestic violence or harassment, explains the application process, and outlines key considerations. In addition, the National Network to End Domestic Violence also has a resource sheet about the myths and realities of changing one’s identity.