When is a Social Security Number Required?
While having a social security number is not mandatory, it does make life easier as it seems that normal day-to-day living is not possible without one. There are certain entities and authorities that require a social security number.
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Types
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Opening a bank account is not possible without a social security number. With the advent of 911 and the amendment of the Patriot Act, more stringent rules apply to bank accounts and identification. Driver's license, social security card, birth certificate and proof of residence are required by most banks to open an account. Employers also require a social security number to comply with laws pertaining to illegal immigrants and for wage and tax reporting purposes.
Benefits
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The Food Stamp Program and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) require a social security number for all members of the family including the applicant before benefits will be released.
The School Lunch Program require the social security numbers from all family members before free school lunches go into effect.
Medicare (medical benefit entity) requires social security numbers before benefits are given to the applicant.
Unemployment benefits are not released without a social security number.
The Department of Labor requires a social security number before Worker's Compensation benefits are paid.
Department of Education Student Loans may not be claimed without a social security number. -
Identification
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The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) first introduced social security numbers for identification to keep track of an individual's tax deductions, tax returns and federal loans; however, the system proved to be of use to other legal entities and is now used frequently in many databases belonging to credit agencies, debt collecting agencies, hospitals, schools and police databases.
Considerations
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States require social security numbers for driver's licenses, commercial driver's licenses and child support enforcement purposes. Refusal to provide your social security card or number may result in the service being unavailable. Utility companies do not need your social security number as they may do a credit check via other means. Always ask why your social security number is needed and what the consequences are if you do not produce it or refuse. Federal entities and the United States Government are permitted to ask for your social security number; if asked by other agencies you are unsure about, always question the purpose and legalities involved.
Geography
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Social Security Numbers (SSNs) are necessary in all 48 states in the Continental United States and Hawaii and Alaska, when claiming the government benefits described (but not limited to) in this article. If you are a Permanent Resident Alien and you return to your home country; be sure to turn in your green card (work permit card) before leaving the United States. Failure to surrender your green card will determine your lawful duty to file taxes in the United States every year.
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