How do I make sure no one is using my child's social security number?

1. Step 1: Report and close the fraudulent accounts. Contact the companies where fraud happened. ...
2. Step 2: Freeze your child's credit report. ...
3. Step 3: Report child identity theft.

How do I freeze my minor's Social Security number?

Does locking your SSN prevent identity theft?

Although locking your SSN helps prevent anyone from committing identity theft or fraud in your name, it also has consequences that you may face even as the owner of your own SSN. If you requested to lock your SSN and later want that lock removed, you can contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to unlock it.

How do you check to see if SSN is being used?

If you think someone may be using your SSN to work, check your Social Security Personal Earnings and Benefit Statement. You can get a copy by calling 1-800-772-1213, or online at www.ssa.gov/online/ssa-7004.pdf.

How much does it cost to lock your Social Security number?

There is NO COST to place or lift a security freeze. For more information, see detailed instructions entitled “Placing a Security Freeze on Your Credit Report to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft” below. 5. Review your credit reports carefully.

How do I protect my Social Security number from being used?

Don't carry your Social Security card with you. Instead, memorize your SSN and keep it secure at home. Never repeat your SSN aloud in public or around anyone you don't trust, and always ask why and how it will be used before giving it out. Shred paperwork with your SSN.

How do I freeze my child's credit on Equifax?

To place a security freeze on the Equifax credit report of a minor (under the age of 16), you will need to submit proof of their identity, along with yours, and proof that you are their authorized representative. Download and follow the instructions on the Minor Freeze Request form.

How do I freeze my child's credit on TransUnion?

To place a Protected Consumer Freeze for a minor or incapacitated adult, mail TransUnion a request with documents proving you have the authority to act on their behalf. A parent or guardian can place a Protected Consumer Freeze for children aged 15 and younger.

How common is child identity theft?

According to the child identity fraud report published by Javelin Strategy & Research in 2022, 915,000 U.S. children were victims of child identity fraud in the previous year. The study also found that “children under the age of 7 were most likely to be victimized by ID theft and subsequent ID fraud.”

How do you check if my child's SSN is being used?

First, you need to check with the Social Security Administration once a year to make sure no one is using your child's SSN. Secondly, you need to check your child's credit report (free – Equifax -1-800-525-6285; Experian-1-888-397-3742; TransUnion-1-800-680-7289.)

How do you put an alert on your Social Security number?

Go to the website of any of the three major credit bureaus and select that you want to add a fraud alert. Note: You only need to do it at one credit bureau. Once you place the fraud alert at any of the three bureaus, they automatically notify the other two.

How to block someone from claiming your child on taxes online?

Lock Down Your Child's SSN or Identity: In order to fully protect your child from being accepted on an e-filed return, obtain an IRS IP PIN or Identity Protection PIN. This number is a six-digit number that gets assigned to one person each year.

Does freezing credit prevent identity theft?

A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report. If you suspect your personal information or identity was stolen, placing a credit freeze can help protect you from fraud.

How do I know if my SSN was leaked?

When reviewing your credit reports, look for any unfamiliar activity, including new lines of credit or loans in your name that you didn't request. If you find anything suspicious, it could be a sign that your SSN was compromised and used to commit identity theft.

Can I change my Social Security number to prevent identity theft?

Should you get a new SSN? If you've done all you can to fix the problems resulting from misuse of your SSN, and someone is still using your number, we may assign you a new number. You can't get a new SSN: If your SSN card is lost or stolen, but there's no evidence that someone is using your number.

How do you freeze your Social Security number?

To block electronic access to your SSN, call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213. Once you've made your request, any automated telephone and electronic access to your Social Security file is blocked.

How do I check to see if someone is using my identity?

What is the best identity theft protection service?

After extensive testing, we found Aura is the best identity theft protection service, especially for families. But we also recommend NortonLifeLock, Identity Guard, and McAfee as great alternatives. Keep scrolling to learn more about our top picks.

Can you lock your SSN for free?

The Social Security Administration has a free, online tool called Self Lock that lets you immediately stop someone else from using your Social Security number when applying for a job or a new credit account. You can access this feature after setting up an account at Social Security's E-Verity website.

Can you change your SSN?

The Social Security Administration does allow you to change your number, but only under limited circumstances, such as identity theft or if your safety is in danger. You will also need to supply appropriate documentation to support your application for a new number. Bloomberg Law.

Should I be worried if my SSN is stolen?

Contact the IRS and tell them your SSN has been stolen. In one of the most nefarious tax scams, criminals can use your SSN to file and claim your tax return. This can also lead to an audit, adding even more work to your identity theft recovery process.