A social security number is a nine-digit number assigned by the government in the United States. This number is used for certain activities and purchases in daily life. Here are three uses of social security numbers.
1. Taking Out a Federal Loan
When you apply for a federal loan such as a federal student loan to help fund college, you will be asked for you social security number. The reason for asking for your ssn trace is to make sure that you are eligible to receive the loan and are not in default on another federal loan. The number is also used to verify your citizenship status and ensure that you are registered with the Selective Service, if applicable.
2. Getting a Passport
The government needs to verify your citizenship status when applying for a United States passport. If you do not have a social security number and wish to apply for a passport, you must submit a certified statement saying that you have never been issued a social security number. Failing to provide either of those pieces of information can delay the application process or cause you to be denied the passport.
3. Filing Taxes
The state and federal taxes that you file each year require you to report your social security number in order to verify your identity and what you claim as your income. If you claim any children as dependents on the tax return, you will need to provide their social security numbers on the form as well. If you have recently had a child and do not have this number for them yet, you will need to amend your tax return later or file for an extension on filling out your tax return.
The next time you need to complete any of these actions, have your social security number available if you have one.