Your SSN, otherwise known as your personal id number, is what the US government uses in order to provide retirement benefits. Also, if you plan on getting yourself a job (and who doesn’t!), having a social security number is compulsory, because everyone with a job has got to pay into the social security system.
That’s not all though - there are plenty of other things where an SSN comes in useful. For instance, you’ll have to supply your social security number when opening a bank account. It’s also required when applying for a driver’s license or a credit card.
A few corporations and Government Agencies have the right to actually demand for your SSN, too. These include the Tax Department, the Department of Motor vehicles and the Welfare department. But keep in mind, that it’s always better to give your social security number only when it’s needed. The less it’s in circulation, the slimmer the chances of it being stolen.
Hence, it’s vital that you safeguard your SSN, because they’re one of the primary targets of identity theft. (more…)
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