Do I have to provide my Social Security number (SSN) to a business?

According to the U.S. Social Security Administration’s website:

Anyone can refuse to disclose his or her number, but the requester can refuse its services if you do not give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free to request someone's number and use it for any purpose that does not violate a federal or state law. Sometimes they will issue a different number if you ask.

Title 11 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code contains laws protecting "personal identity information." Chapter 501 of this title deals with a business's duty to protect Social Security numbers and driver's license numbers.

In addition to other protections, these laws require that certain entities adopt a privacy policy if they require someone to disclose their Social Security number.

Also in Title 11 is the Identity Theft Enforcement and Protection Act. This law concerns the unauthorized use of identifying information.

The law can be complex, so you may wish to talk to an attorney if you are concerned about the safety of your personal information. For more information on finding an attorney, please see the library's Legal Help page.

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