SSN on an online job application

[Mandabella]

Maybe it's just me, but this doesn't sit right with me. Has anyone ever been asked to provide your social security number prior to a job offer? Is this the norm now? What on earth do they need my SSN for when I'm just APPLYING for the job? Couldn't they get that after an interview?

Maybe I'm paranoid...

 

[twojo21]

a ssn can be used to verify & request criminal records & previous work records. also many companies now check a prospective employees credit prior to hire.

 

[Bobbles]

Interestingly enough, the Navy (probably all branches of the military) used to make us sign a Privacy Act Statement when filling out paperwork that contained your SSN.

I don't know how they do it now.

When I went into the service, we were issued Service numbers, but then they changed to SSN's.

I'm not sure how "secure" SSN's are any more.

 

[swanmom]

Can the form be submitted without it or is it required to 'complete' the form?
Last time I did this, I wrote the word "available" in the blank to indicate that I had a proper SSN and would provide it but not on a non-secure internet form.

 

[FINFAN]

Our local school district asks for this info in their on-line application. I just printed out the ap, and then filled it out and hand delivered it. A year ago I would've trusted that it was the aschool site etc., but every day there is another story about identity theft...way too scary.

 

[DisDuck]

Unless the law has changed. SSN is not an identification number and is being used too much like one today. I state that available on application then provide it in person. Too much information is asked today on forms that wind up in some database somewhere.

 

[Mandabella]

Can the form be submitted without it or is it required to 'complete' the form?
Last time I did this, I wrote the word "available" in the blank to indicate that I had a proper SSN and would provide it but not on a non-secure internet form.

It was required to sumit the form. I just did a made up number, and explained in my comments I would provide it but not over the internet.

I don't mind being asked for it, AFTER I am offered the job at least. They can run my credit/criminal/drug screen after they offer me the job....like other companies. But for an online application where I may never hear from the company again? They don't need my SSN for their database.