Social Security Number Verification
Telephone Verification
You can verify up to 5 names/SSNs over the phone by calling toll-free 1-800-772-6270 - weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. EST. You will be asked for your company name and EIN. You must also provide the following information for each name/SSN you want to verify.
* SSN
* last name
* first name
* middle initial (if applicable)
* date of birth
* gender
Verify Social Security Numbers Over the Internet
Overview
There are two Internet verification options you can use to verify that your employee names and Social Security numbers match Social Security’s records. You can:
Verify up to 10 names and SSNs (per screen) online and receive immediate results. This option is ideal to verify new hires.
OR
Upload batch files of up to 250,000 names and SSNs and usually receive results the next government business day. This option is ideal if you want to verify an entire payroll data base or if you hire a large number of workers at a time.
While the service is available to all employers and third-party submitters, it can only be used to verify current or former employees and only for wage reporting (Form W-2) purposes.
Why Should I Verify Names and SSNs
Correct names and SSNs on W-2 wage reports are the keys to the successful processing of your annual wage report submission.
It’s faster & easier to use than submitting your requests on magnetic media or paper listings or even using Social Security’s telephone verification option.
Results in more accurate wage reports.
Saves you processing costs and reduces the number of W-2Cs.
Allows Social Security to properly credit your employees’ earnings record, which will be important information in determining their Social Security benefits in the future.
Step by Step
1. Register to Use SSNVS -
www.socialsecurity.gov/bso/bsowelcome.htm Registration is required. Third-party preparers need only register once in their own firm’s name. Complete the registration form and select your own password. Social Security will verify your identity against our records and display a PIN. Make note of the PIN. More Registration Info.
2. Request Access and Activation Code - Return to
www.socialsecurity.gov/bso/bsowelcome.htm
login in with your PIN and password and select "Request Access and Activation Code."
3. Activation Code is Mailed to Your Employer - Your employer should give you the activation code which allows you access to SSNVS.
4. Login to Use the Service - Go to
www.socialsecurity.gov/bso/bsowelcome.htm, select Login, input your PIN, Password and your activation code and you will be able to use the service.
More Information
SSNVS Pamphlet
SSNVS Handbook
Systems Requirements
Information for Third-Party Users
Sample Letter to Give Employees
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Additional Verification Options
High Group List and Other Ways to Determine If an SSN is Valid
Restrictions on Using SSNVS
SOURCE: Social Security Administration
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