Why do job applications require your social security number?

Question

and... would it hurt my chances of employment if i refuse to give it?

Answer 1

You have to pay taxes.   Your SSN is required.

Why would you refuse if you want a job?

Answer 2

they want it so they can see that you're a citizen and legally permitted to work in th US (ssn is a US thing, right?) anyway, it might hurt your application, because it looks like you could be hiding something! lol! they can't really use it anyway, and most won't even check it out, but they're just covering their asses really.  

Answer 3

It's a no win situation... if you DON'T give it.. and prior to being hired, you really don't have to... then your application COULD just end up in the 'bin' because a lot of HR people think that you are trying to hide something.

Times have changed so much.. at one time, people put their SS# on their CV... now they don't want it on the Driver's License.  I had my identity stolen about 30 years ago because I put the SS# on an application... and I don't EVER want to go through that again.

Answer 4

Many many employers are doing background checks now which require a SS #.  It will not hurt your chances if you don't put it on the application (more and more are just not putting that on the application in the first place).  However, I would write near the boxes "will provide upon hire".

If asked during the interview, just tell them you are not comfortable having your SS# on the form if not necessary.  I don't have a problem with that at all as an HR Manager!  It's smart thinking with applications at public jobs such as restaurant or retail, just lying around!  

Answer 5

In order to pay you, they need your social security number. That way they can tax your paychecks and also do background checks on you. You WILL NOT get hired without giving them your social security number.