FAQs
If you do not have a Social Security Number (SSN) enter your Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have an SSN or ITIN leave the entry field blank. If you cannot use online verification, you must notarize your Self-Query and upload it by signing in to your Self-Query order.
What happens if you have no Social Security number? ›
You don't need an SSN to get a driver's license, register for school, get private health insurance, or apply for school lunch programs or subsidized housing. Some organizations use SSNs to identify you in their records. Most, however, will identify you by some other means if you request it.
Do I need to have my Social Security number memorized? ›
Although there's no way to totally prevent identity theft if your Social Security number is stolen, the following strategies can help lessen your risk: Safeguard your SSN. Don't carry your Social Security card with you. Instead, memorize your SSN and keep it secure at home.
How to make sure no one is using your Social Security number? ›
First, you can contact the Social Security Administration by phone at 800-772-1213 and request to block electronic access to your Social Security information. This process prevents anyone — including you — from changing or accessing your Social Security record.
Do Internet providers ask for Social Security number? ›
It is normal for companies that provide internet, cable or phone service to ask for a prospective customer's Social Security number so they can run a credit check. They are, in a way, extending credit to you, in the form of service that you haven't yet paid for. What's your track record of paying your bills?
What should I put if I don't have Social Security number? ›
If you do not have a Social Security Number (SSN) enter your Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have an SSN or ITIN leave the entry field blank.
What happens if I don't get my Social Security number? ›
What if I don't receive my SSN card within 3 weeks of arrival? Contact us. In the United States, you may call the telephone number listed for the Social Security office in the local telephone directory under "United States Government" or Social Security's toll-free number 1-800-772-1213.
Are Social Security numbers mandatory? ›
While the government cannot require an individual to disclose their SSN without a legal basis, companies may refuse to provide service to an individual who does not provide an SSN.
What counts as proof of Social Security number? ›
Your Social Security card. Tax form(s). Benefit or income statement from Social Security containing the Social Security number. Pending application for an SSN.
What happens if I don't remember my Social Security number? ›
If you were assigned a SSN at some point in your life, but you don't know it now, you need to request a replacement card. This is the only way to get your number because the Social Security Administration (SSA) does not give out Social Security numbers any other way.
An alternative to the Social Security number is the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
Can I verify someone without a Social Security number? ›
A case cannot be created in E-Verify without an SSN. If a newly hired employee has applied for, but has not yet received his or her SSN (e.g., the employee is a newly arrived immigrant), attach an explanation to the employee's Form I-9 and set it aside.
How do I check if someone is using my name? ›
Here are six simple ways to check for identity theft:
- Review your credit reports.
- Check your bank statements.
- Pay attention to strange mail.
- Stay on top of your tax returns.
- Check your medical statements.
- Review your Social Security statements.
Can I refuse to give my Social Security number? ›
Anyone can refuse to disclose his or her number, but the requester can refuse its services if you do not give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free to request someone's number and use it for any purpose that does not violate a federal or state law.
Can I get Internet connection without SSN? ›
The SSN is not mandatory. In order to discuss the billing or account information, or to make any changes to the Comcast account, you can provide the last four digits of the previous payment method (credit card or checking account) or your 16-digit account number.
Who should I give my SSN to? ›
Though it's important to protect your Social Security number, there are legitimate reasons for sharing those nine digits. "Any company that you're applying to for a loan or line of credit needs your number," Paige Hanson, cyber safety education chief at NortonLifeLock, said in an interview.
Why do some people not have social security numbers? ›
Social Security was originally a universal tax, but when Medicare was passed in 1965, objecting religious groups in existence prior to 1951 were allowed to opt out of the system. Because of this, not every American is part of the Social Security program, and not everyone has a number.
Is it necessary to have a Social Security number? ›
You need a Social Security number (SSN) to work. We use your SSN to record your earnings and determine your eligibility for Social Security benefits and certain government services. Many financial institutions, such as banks and credit companies, also ask for your number when you open an account.
What if my child does not have a Social Security number? ›
If you don't have and are unable to obtain the child's Social Security number (SSN), you should request an adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN) or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN).
What happens when we run out of social security numbers? ›
The SSA will not reassign SSNs. Randomization will provide us with enough new numbers to avoid reassignment. How did SSN randomization affect the geographical significance of the area number?