Whether you're applying for a new credit card, completing a job enrollment process, or filling out a form prior to a doctor's visit, your social security number may be required. While you may know to keep it safe, the best practices in this respect may not be as well-known. For this reason, it's worth discussing a few methods that will keep this unique number safe. Here are a few ways to do so, courtesy of Robert Jain.
One of the best ways to keep your social security number safe is by simply keeping it to yourself. Treat it as you would a password to a social media account; don't let anyone else know it. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule that names like Bob Jain can tell you about. For instance, if you're planning a trip to the optometrist for an eye exam, you may have to provide your SSN so that they can process your information. Even so, such a situation is the exception as opposed to the rule.
What about the businesses that may not require your social security number to move forward with services? It's not uncommon to speak to those in charge regarding the necessity of your SSN before having it leveraged in your favor. However, for many businesses, this information is absolutely required, which means that you may be denied service if you're unwilling to budge. Nonetheless, it doesn't hurt to inquire ahead of time.
Another way to keep your social security number safe is to monitor your billing statements. For example, if you look at one of your statements and see a payment that you don't remember making, it's in your best interest to contact your bank. By doing so, you'll be able to see if this was an instance of irregular activity that could have been tied to your SSN. Don't hesitate to contact your bank in this instance, as it will provide the help you need.
Finally, you should ask about privacy policies. For instance, if you go to the doctor and fill out a form that requires your social security number, ask about their policy. Inquire about why the information is required and how it will be used. Having such information at your disposal will make you more inclined to provide it in the future. More importantly, it will allow you to keep your SSN more secure.
One of the best ways to keep your social security number safe is by simply keeping it to yourself. Treat it as you would a password to a social media account; don't let anyone else know it. Of course, there are exceptions to the rule that names like Bob Jain can tell you about. For instance, if you're planning a trip to the optometrist for an eye exam, you may have to provide your SSN so that they can process your information. Even so, such a situation is the exception as opposed to the rule.
What about the businesses that may not require your social security number to move forward with services? It's not uncommon to speak to those in charge regarding the necessity of your SSN before having it leveraged in your favor. However, for many businesses, this information is absolutely required, which means that you may be denied service if you're unwilling to budge. Nonetheless, it doesn't hurt to inquire ahead of time.
Another way to keep your social security number safe is to monitor your billing statements. For example, if you look at one of your statements and see a payment that you don't remember making, it's in your best interest to contact your bank. By doing so, you'll be able to see if this was an instance of irregular activity that could have been tied to your SSN. Don't hesitate to contact your bank in this instance, as it will provide the help you need.
Finally, you should ask about privacy policies. For instance, if you go to the doctor and fill out a form that requires your social security number, ask about their policy. Inquire about why the information is required and how it will be used. Having such information at your disposal will make you more inclined to provide it in the future. More importantly, it will allow you to keep your SSN more secure.
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