Importance of Social Security Numbers
A Social Security Number (SSN) is important for a variety of reasons, ranging from identification purposes to making sure your taxes are being paid. Every legal citizen of the United is required to have an SSN. Social Security Numbers are available when a baby has a birth certificate application filed.
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Armed Forces
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At one time members in the Armed Forces were given a Service Number (SN) to identify them. However, beginning in 1969, the various branches switched over from using Service Numbers to using Social Security Numbers in order to identify the service members. The Army and Air Force switched over in 1969, while the Navy and Marine Corps switched in 1972. The last branch to switch over was the Coast Guard in 1974.
Tax Purposes
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In most cases, your Social Security Number is also going to be the number that the Internal Revenue Service uses to identify you. For this reason, it's important to make sure that you use the proper SSN when you fill out your tax return. If the wrong SSN is given to the Internal Revenue Service, it can either delay any refund that you might have coming or it can cost you interest and penalties if you happen to owe money. In addition, the wrong SSN can keep you from getting credited for future Social Security benefits.
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Privacy
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It is extremely important to keep your Social Security Number as private as possible. The Social Security Office recommends keeping your Social Security card in a safe place and to only present it when asked for--such as when applying for a job. Some employers will ask to see your Social Security card when you are interviewed for a job. They will verify your SSN with the Social Security Number Verification Service in order to make sure of your identity. Remember that an identity thief can do a lot of damage by having your name and Social Security number. For example, he can open up a bank account using your name and Social Security Number and then apply for credit cards, using your name and number. In order to cut down on the possibility of identity theft, you should make sure that you only give your number out for valid reasons and that your number will be kept confidential.
Other Factors
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Social Security Numbers are going to be needed for a number of purposes. If you want to open a bank account, you'll be asked to provide your Social Security Number. If you want to obtain health insurance, you'll be asked to give your Social Security Number. In addition, if you ever need to get government benefits, you'll need to provide a Social Security Number.
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References
- National Archives: Service Number (SN) and Social Security Number (SSN); Copyright 2011 U.S. National Archives and Records Administration
- Internal Revenue Service: Taxpayer Identification Numbers (TIN); Internal Revenue Service, November 2010
- Bankrate.com: Name and Social Security Number Coordination; Kay Bell, March 2008
- Social Security Online: Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS); Copyright 2010 USA.gov
- Social Security Online: Identity Theft and Your Social Security Number; Copyright 2010 USA.gov
- Social Security Online: Social Security Numbers for Children; Copyright 2011 USA.gov
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