What Is a Social Security Number (SSN)? A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents who are authorized to work ...

Some Social Security number requests are not optional. Federal reporting systems rely on the SSN as a primary identifier. Employment offers the clearest example. Employers collect your SSN to report ...

If you were born after 1935, you’ve probably had a Social Security number (SSN) for your entire life. And you’ve likely memorized it over the years, whether while opening a bank account, applying for ...