finance
Guard your nine-digit ID number
When it's needed In some situations, you may be legally required to provide your Social Security number to obtain a service or benefit. Examples: Your Social Security number is required for tax reporting; in compliance with the Patriot Act, such as when you open a bank account; for employment reporting; to get an extension of credit; or to acquire a driver's license, Stephens says. The driver's license number should not be the same as your SSN. Tip: Get the Department of Motor Vehicles to change your driver's license number if you have an old license that uses your Social Security number as the driver's license number. "You'll probably have to pay a fee for that, but it certainly is a good idea to do that. Of course, if you're close to your time for a renewal, they will reissue it with a new number automatically," says Stephens. |