If you believe a thief is using your Social Security number to work or claim Social Security benefits, call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. Or report Social Security benefits fraud online at

What do I do if someone is using my Social Security number?

If someone uses your Social Security number to obtain a job, credit, loans, telephone accounts, or other goods and services, contact the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) . The FTC collects complaints about identity theft from those whose identities have been stolen.

Can a person sue someone for mishandling their Social Security number?

Many states have specific laws that provide individuals with a legal claim against entities or individuals who mishandle private information, specifically SS numbers (e.g. NY Social Security Number Protection Law).

What happens if someone else uses your Social Security number?

Nothing wrong with people getting jobs, of course, but if they are using your Social Security Number, it can cause untold confusion and issues with your taxes and your Social Security benefits. You could even LOSE your Social Security benefits – and that can be hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Can a thief use your Social Security number to file tax return?

An identity thief also might use your Social Security number to file a tax return to receive your refund. If you’re eligible for a refund, a thief could file a tax return before you do and get your refund. Then, when you do file, the IRS will think you already received your refund.

How many people pay taxes using another’s SSN?

In a typical year, some 7 million to 10 million workers pay taxes using names and numbers that don’t match IRS and Social Security Agency data. Many of these are believed to be illegal immigrants, based on sample studies conducted by the Social Security Administration, but there is no additional published information.