Why do I need to know my SSN?

Like your birth certificate, your SSN proves who you are. You’ll need to provide your 9-digit SSN to access government services and to apply for jobs, public benefits, housing, a driver license, health care, education programs, and financial aid.[43]

  1. 43

    New or Replacement Social Security Number Card, Soc. Sec. Admin., http://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/.