Want to change your social security number? You can, but because this number is tied to your work history and wages, for example, it’s used to distribute your benefits — which is the reason you have a social security number — and used to identify you at financial institutions and government websites, you don’t want to take change lightly.

In some situations, the Social Security Administration will allow you to apply for a new Social Security card and number. Getting a new number may not be the one-stop solution you think it might be, so it’s important to think carefully and understand when you can and can’t get a new one.

Below, we’ll walk you through the steps you need to take to change your Social Security number, the process, and other available options. For more, learn what to do if you are a victim of identity theft and how to apply for social security benefits.

When is it possible to change your social security number?

One thing you should know about changing your Social Security number is that you can’t get a new number just because you want to. The Social Security Administration also won’t let you change your number if you lose your card. If you misplace it, you can request a replacement card up to three times per calendar year and ten times in a lifetime.

In only a few cases, The Social Security Administration will approve a change in your social security number.

The Social Security Administration will allow you to change your Social Security number if:

• More than one person is assigned or uses the same number
• Sequential numbers assigned to members of the same family create problems.
• You are a victim of identity theft and continue to be disadvantaged by using the original number
• Harassment, abuse or endangerment of life are involved
• A person has religious or cultural objections to certain numbers or digits in the original number. (In this situation, supporting written documentation must be provided.)

The administration said it won’t issue you a new Social Security number if:

• If your Social Security card is lost or stolen, but there is no evidence that someone is using your number.
• To avoid the consequences of declaring bankruptcy.
• If you intend to avoid the law or any legal responsibility.

How do I apply for a new social security number?

To apply for a new Social Security card, you’ll need to send an SS-5 form to the local branch of your office.

You will need to provide sufficient evidence that your request for a new Social Security number is warranted by providing “current, credible, third-party evidence documenting the reasons why you need a new number.”

US citizens will also need to bring proof of identity, age and citizenship, such as a passport and birth certificate. Citizens must present current immigration documents such as I-94, Arrival/Departure Record or Employment Authorization Document. Check with your local Social Security office in advance to confirm what other documents you may need to complete your application during your visit. All documentation must be original copies — no photocopies or certified copies will be accepted.

Victims of domestic abuse must provide supporting documents

Victims of domestic abuse or harassment will need to provide a written statement detailing the abuse and explaining why you need to get a new social security number. Provide supporting documents such as police reports, medical records and restraining orders, if applicable. The agents working on your case can help you collect the appropriate documentation.

If you are also requesting a name change, only court-approved name change documents supporting your request can be accepted. Citizenship, age and identity documents must also be provided for any children you are requesting to obtain a other social security number.

Victims of identity theft must prove ongoing fraud

If you are a victim of identity theft applying for a new social security number, you must show that you are experiencing ongoing fraud and also continue to be adversely affected by incidents such as access to your credit report. In addition, you must demonstrate that you have tried to resolve the issue through other official means.

The administration itself won’t be able to help you directly with identity theft, but it does offer a number of tasks you can do to protect yourself. It also doesn’t promise that a new number will give you the relief you might hope for.

“Remember that a new number it probably won’t solve all your problems. This is because other government agencies (such as the IRS and state motor vehicle agencies) and private companies (such as banks and credit reporting companies) will have records under your old number.”

Victims of identity theft should report to Federal Trade Commission, contact IRSand file a complaint at Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Your old social security number is still linked to you

Even if you go through the entire process of getting a new Social Security number, your old number isn’t going anywhere. Both numbers will be used to calculate your earnings and will be credited to the same account. Having two Social Security numbers can also present other problems, as some records (medical, financial, employment) may be linked to your SSN and previous name (if you changed the latter).

You can ask the Social Security Administration to block your number for you

If you’re still unsure whether to submit a request to change your Social Security number, you can request that the Social Security Administration block your number from any electronic access requests first.

“Once requested, all automatic telephone and electronic access to your Social Security file is blocked. No one, including you, will be able to see or change your personal information over the Internet or through our automated phone service.”

To submit your Social Security number to be blocked electronically, call 1-800-772-1213.

If for any reason you need to lift the block, you can contact the administration to unlock your number after proof of identity is confirmed.

For more, don’t miss how to spot the most common identity theft scams and when it’s okay to give your social security number.