Should I Put My Social Security Number on a Job Application?

While applying for a job, have you ever asked yourself, “Why is this employer asking for my Social Security number on my job application?” Or, “Should I ever put my Social Security number on a job application?” 

Well, you’re not alone. Many job seekers worry about providing their Social Security numbers (SSNs) when applying for jobs.

State laws differ regarding what information employers and recruitment agencies can collect from applicants, but most states don’t prohibit employers from asking job applicants for their SSNs.

Nevertheless, you have the right to decline to share your Social Security number on a job application. You should also always be wary of job applications asking for your SSN. Why? Because identity theft is on the rise, and many scammers are now posing as potential employers.

So what is a Social Security number, and why do some employers ask for it on their job applications?

What Is a Social Security Number?

A Social Security number is a nine-digit identification number that’s issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and unique to you. 

You may need your SSN to:

• File your taxes 
• Open a bank account 
• Apply for a loan 
• Get a passport 
• Start a job
• Claim government benefits

Linked to your SSA account, your SSN tracks your earnings history and contributions to the Social Security system.

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Why Do Employers Need Social Security Numbers?

Employers use SSNs primarily to meet IRS reporting rules. They might also ask for your SSN earlier in the hiring process for other legitimate reasons.

Here are four common reasons employers ask for your SSN:

• To verify your eligibility to work in the United States: Employers verify your status as a U.S. citizen or authorized worker through your Social Security number.
• To confirm your identity: Companies use your SSN to confirm that you are who you claim to be and prevent identity theft during the hiring process.
• To run background checks: Employers can run background checks using your SSN for positions that require them, such as roles in education or finance.
• To process payroll and tax obligations: Employers deduct Social Security payments from your wages and report your Social Security retirement benefits to the IRS using your SSN.

If a potential employer asks for your SSN, you can ask them how they intend to use it. You also have the right to ask about the measures the company has taken to protect such sensitive information.

Should I Give My Social Security Number on a Job Application?

Just because a job application asks for your SSN doesn’t mean that you must share it. You don’t have to provide your SSN to any employer, except for government and national security-related jobs. To proceed with the hiring process, however, an employer may need your SSN if the job requires a credit check.

If the employer says sharing your SSN is optional, you can opt not to give it. If not, here are some steps you can take to protect yourself before sharing your Social Security number on a job application.

1. Verify the Employer’s Legitimacy

Research the company thoroughly before sharing sensitive information. Check out its official website and read recent news articles about the organization. Also, verify its physical address and contact information. Look up the company on sites such as LinkedIn to confirm that it employs real people in legitimate roles.

Scammers often create fake job postings to harvest personal information. If you can’t verify the business, treat any SSN request as a red flag.

2. Authenticate the Job Posting

Cross-check the job listing on the company’s official career page or reputable job boards. Look for inconsistencies in the job description that may signal a job scam. Authentic job postings should match the employer’s industry standards and practices.

3. Contact the Employer

Before submitting your SSN, contact the company by phone using the number listed on its website. Ask to speak with someone in HR or recruiting. Confirm that they requested your SSN and find out exactly why they need it at this stage.

4. Don’t Send Your SSN Through Email or Text

Never transmit your SSN through an unsecured email or text, which is vulnerable to interception by cybercriminals. If an employer requires your SSN, use a secure method, such as an encrypted online portal.

Protecting your SSN means staying alert and asking questions. Don’t let the formality of the job application process override your instincts or your right to privacy.

When Should Employers Typically Ask for a Social Security Number?

Most employers request your Social Security number only after you accept a written offer, during the onboarding process. They typically require your SSN to complete your I-9 or W-4 form and set up their payroll system.

What to Do When Job Applications Ask for SSN 

At any stage of recruitment, prepare yourself for this situation. You may open a job posting from your favorite brand only to find that it’s requiring you to submit your SSN. This may also happen when you’re applying for legitimate work-from-home positions.

Make sure you err on the side of caution when sharing your SSN. Always research and verify the company and the job before you share your details.

And remember, if it seems too good to be true, or just plain fishy, it probably is. Don’t be the desperate job seeker who fails to protect their personal information.

For more job application tips, check out our Resource Center.