On Social Security numbers

[giza]

I found this little gem today: The Social Security Number FAQ.

Among other things, it tells you what rights you have under The Privacy Act of 1974 when a goverment organization requests your SSN. For example, they must tell you these four things:

1: The authority (whether granted by statute, or by executive order of
the President) which authorizes the solicitation of the information and 
whether disclosure of such information is mandatory or voluntary;

2: The principal purposes for which the information is intended to be used;

3: The routine uses which may be made of the information, as published 
   annually in the Federal Register, and

4: The effects on you, if any, of not providing all or any part of the 
   requested information.

The act also "makes it illegal for Federal, state, and local government agencies to deny any rights, privileges or benefits to individuals who refuse to provide their SSNs unless the disclosure is required by Federal statute". That's very nice to know.

The FAQ also goes into detail on things you can do to keep from giving your SSN to a business or employer that might request it. The whole FAQ is only about 10-15 pages, and I found it to be a very informative read.

Comments

[lionman.livejournal.com]

Hmmm...interesting read. Now, just to remember it if someone asks for an SSN!

[kuddlepup.livejournal.com]

Thing to keep in mind about this particular document. It only impacts government agencies and doesn't cover private employers.

An employer always retains the right to ask for your SSN, as they are required to provide information to the IRS and other government reporting agencies. Also any authorized agent for your company also has the ability to ask for the number. You're not obligated to provide it, but they are also not obligated to provide information or do work on your behalf without it. Specific things that get impacted by those kinds of requests can include medical insurance and claims, tax deferred company savings plans (such as 401K accounts), and even general HR/payroll inquiries.

[kellic.livejournal.com]

I really do enjoy your LJ....You come up with some really good outside links...thanks.

[doco.livejournal.com]

I'm amazed you actually have some sort of data protection law over there. ;)

[cerisewolf.livejournal.com]

Of course, this all gos out the window when you sign a contract with the devil military.

[giza.livejournal.com]

But you get to carry Big Guns in exchange, right?