Social Security Number FAQs

You Should Know

Individuals will be asked to provide their Social Security number (SSN) in order to obtain many types of services. The ITRC advises consumers to ask the following questions when their SSN is requested:

  • Why does the requestor need the information (what law or reason makes this a requirement)?
  • What will happen if it is not provided?
  • Is there is an alternative?

You can always refuse to supply your Social Security number, but that could mean going without a good or service.

Federal, state or local government agencies are required to include a Privacy Act Statement that will tell you whether furnishing your Social Security number is mandatory or voluntary; by what law or other authority the agency is requesting the number; and the uses that will be made of the information.

Various sections of the Social Security Act detail when state agencies must obtain Social Security numbers.

According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a bank or financial institution (including a lender) is required to obtain your ID number which is either your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

There is no law mandating the collection of SSNs by health care providers/hospitals (that are not government-sponsored such as Medicare, Medicaid or the Veterans Administration. These entities can ask for your SSN), but it is standard industry practice.

Health Insurance companies are required to obtain your Social Security number.

You should not include your Social Security number on a job application. Once you are hired, your employer will need your SSN for tax purposes (W-4 form) and to document your legal right to work in the United States (I-9 form).

If you have additional questions about the use of your Social Security number, you can contact the ITRC for no-cost assistance. Call us toll-free at 888.400.5530 or LiveChat with us.

This information should not be used in lieu of legal advice. Any requests to reproduce this material, other than by individual victims for their own use, should be directed to [email protected].

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