Your Social Security number (SSN) is a critical piece of personal information required for job applications, filing taxes, and opening credit accounts.
Unfortunately, if this nine-digit number is exposed in a data breach, it can lead to identity theft. Cybercriminals can misuse your SSN to secure employment, incur debts in your name, or even steal your tax refunds.
However, did you know that you can lock your Social Security number to prevent unauthorized access and safeguard your identity?
Why Locking Your Social Security Number Is Important
Blocking electronic access to your SSN may seem drastic, but it is an effective measure if your personal data has been compromised. High-profile breaches, such as those affecting Change Healthcare and National Public Data, have left millions vulnerable to identity theft. By locking your SSN, you can significantly reduce the chances of your information being exploited.
Pairing an SSN lock with a credit freeze enhances your protection against cybercriminals, helping you maintain control over your financial and personal identity.
How to Lock Your Social Security Number
There are two straightforward ways to lock your SSN:
1. Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA)
You can block access to your SSN by calling the SSA at 1-800-772-1213 during their business hours (8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday).
- Tip: Wait times are generally shorter early in the morning or later in the week.
- Once your identity is verified, the SSA will block electronic access to your SSN.
2. Create a MyE-Verify Account
Another option is to use the MyE-Verify online service, which allows you to lock your SSN using the platform’s self-lock feature.
- The lock is valid for one year and can be extended before expiration.
- Many employers use E-Verify to verify employment eligibility. By locking your SSN, employers attempting to verify your information will be unable to access it.
- This method is especially convenient if you prefer to avoid phone calls.
| Method | Process | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| SSA Call | Call 1-800-772-1213 to request an SSN lock after verifying your identity. | Indefinite until unlocked |
| MyE-Verify | Sign up online and activate the self-lock feature for one year, with an option to renew. | 1 Year (Renewable) |
Drawbacks of Locking Your SSN
While locking your SSN is effective, it also has downsides:
- Restricted Access for You: You may need to unlock your SSN whenever a new employer needs to verify your work eligibility or when applying for government benefits.
- Inconvenience: The process of locking and unlocking can be time-consuming but may be worthwhile if you’ve experienced tax fraud or identity theft.
For additional security, you can obtain an identity protection PIN from the IRS to prevent fraudulent tax filings using your SSN.
SSN Lock vs. Credit Freeze: Key Differences
It’s essential to understand the distinction between an SSN lock and a credit freeze, as both are free but serve different purposes:
| Feature | SSN Lock | Credit Freeze |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Blocks online access to your Social Security records. | Prevents access to your credit reports. |
| Setup | Through SSA or MyE-Verify. | Contact all three major credit bureaus. |
| Usage | Protects against employment or government benefit fraud. | Stops unauthorized credit accounts. |
To freeze your credit, you’ll need to contact the three major bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.
Will Locking Your SSN Prevent Identity Theft?
While locking your SSN offers significant protection, it does not eliminate all forms of identity theft. Here are some additional tips to safeguard your information:
- Share Your SSN Sparingly: Only provide your SSN when absolutely necessary and avoid sharing it via phone or text unless you initiated the contact.
- Monitor Financial Activity: Regularly check your financial accounts and credit reports for unusual activity.
- Invest in ID Theft Protection Services: Services like credit monitoring or identity theft protection offer additional layers of security, including alerts and restoration assistance.
FAQs
How long does it take to lock my Social Security number?
Locking your SSN via the SSA typically takes a few minutes once your identity is verified. Using MyE-Verify is an instant process upon completing the account setup.
Can I unlock my SSN temporarily?
Yes, both the SSA and MyE-Verify platforms allow you to unlock your SSN when needed, such as for employment verification or government benefits.
Does locking my SSN cost money?
No, locking your SSN through the SSA or MyE-Verify is completely free of charge.
