Giving out SS number
 

What do younthink about the necessity of giving your SS number to contractors such as Dish and Direct TV?

I would'nt.

I believe various businesses ask for it in order to run a credit check.

Bill :)

I would NEVER give out my SS # to one of these companies.

I never never give out my SS to any of the companies.

they didn't ask

How about Dr office when you are siging up as a new patient???

If you dont give it, they say the Dr will not see you!!

Even they do not NEED your SS# You have your medical insurance card which gives a group number and member ID. That's all they need to verify your insurance.

I never give my SS# to a doctor's office and I have never been refused service. You could always tell them you don't know it. If they need a fill in the blank 9 digit number for their computer I simply suggest using any random number they like.

The reason you are asked for your social security number is so they can easily file a collection claim against you if you don't pay your obligation.

I would never give my SS # to a company like Dish, etc. I recently learned that you do not have to give your SS # to a doctor, dentist, etc. because as someone stated above, your insurance card as the required info.

When it comes to Dish and DirectTV service, they require your SS# due to the fact that the installation equipment on average is about $1,200 dollars and a Credit check is required to make sure you will pay or have the means to pay for the services rendered. This is a common pratice nowadays for many companies because most things revolve around credit. The Purpose of a SS# is to identify you as well as for credit. So to answer your question, As long as i knew that my information was safe and secure i would provide it to them just so i could utilize the services they offer.

Lots of paranoia in this thread. What's the harm in giving it up to a reputable business?

Never give out your SS number. Ask anyone in law enforcement,and I bet they would say never. If you trust some cable company with your number -go ahead.

:agree: but I use discretion on certain comapnies. I find it's easier to call them and when they ask for your account number and I don't have it handy, they alternately ask for your social security number.

As long as it safe. I also check my account frequently for suspicious activity such as credit cards..