Legal Question in Business Law in Massachusetts

Social Security Card

Is it legal for the phone company to see a copy of my social security card to get a phone on? I understand that they ask for a number, but why do they need the card?


Asked on 3/20/07, 11:08 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
henry lebensbaum Law Offices of Henry Lebensbaum (978-749-3606)

Re: Social Security Card

I do not think they are entitled to your social security number.

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Answered on 3/20/07, 11:25 am
Herbert Cooper Law Offices of Jameson & Cooper

Re: Social Security Card

Your Social Security number is not supposed to be used as a national identification number, nor is the card supposed to be used as an ID card. Having said that, the telephone company is effectively going to offer you credit (unless they are requiring a substantial deposit from you), and that is their justification for demanding your social security number. Is it right? Probably not. Can they do it? Probably. Can they demand to see your Social Security Card? Yes, as they apparently have done it. Do you have to show it to them? No. Ask them what they need it for. You probably have a photo ID, and they have access to credit reports. That should suffice, at least until REAL ID is imposed...

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Answered on 3/20/07, 11:49 pm


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