Verifying Social Security Numbers (2024)

FAQs

Is there a way to verify a Social Security number? ›

Request Online SSN Verification. The SSN Verification web page enables you to submit up to 10 names and SSNs for verification and obtain immediate results. There is no limit to the number of times the SSN Verification web page may be used within a session.

Identity Theft: If you think an identity thief is using your SSN to work or to collect benefits, call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. If you think someone may be using your SSN to work, check your Social Security Personal Earnings and Benefit Statement.

You'll notice that you're only able to get the user's full name if they're deceased. This is a cautionary detail to make sure you're not able to steal someone's identity just by looking up their Social Security Number. However, you can use an SSN reverse lookup to verify someone's information.

Sign in to your my Social Security account to check your application status. Already have a my Social Security Account? Sign in to your account, scroll down to the “Your Benefit Application” section and select “View Details” to see your application status.

Despite its narrowly drawn purpose, use of the SSN as a general identifier in records systems eventually grew. In 1943, Executive Order (EO) 9397 required Federal agencies to use the SSN in any new system of records to identify persons.

SSN-Check.org is proud to provide the most comprehensive free resource available on Social Security Information including free SSN Lookup and SSN Validation tools. Search by Social Security Number to see when and where a number was issued and determine the number's validity.

The first three digits of your SSN are easy to guess

Not that's not magic, it's publicly documented. Knowing the last four digits, this means an attacker would only have to guess the middle two digits (that's 100 combinations) to figure out the right number.

Check your registered email address for the confirmation email from the SSS with your user ID and SSS number. Also, you can find the SSS number on the upper left below your name on the my.sss website.

The Social Security number ( SSN ) was created in 1936 for the sole purpose of tracking the earnings histories of U.S. workers, for use in determining Social Security benefit entitlement and computing benefit levels.

Is the SSN on a passport? ›

A Social Security Number is not included on a US passport. Although the Social Security Number (SSN) is required when applying for or renewing a passport, it is used as proof of identity and U.S. citizenship, and it won't appear on your passport.

No valid SSN has 9 identical digits or has the 9 digits running consecutively from 1-9. For example, all of the following SSNs are invalid: 111-11-1111. 999-99-9999.

Identity protection services can be a useful addition to your financial toolbox: They may often track where your SSN or certain other personal data appear online. For example, you may be notified if your personal information is found on the dark web, or if someone using your personal information applies for a loan.

While your work authorization will eventually expire, your SSN is permanent and the number will never change. If you already have an SSN, then you do not need to apply for another one.