why does lawyer need social security number

by Wyatt Hirthe 8 min read

Social security numbers are necessary when filing for bankruptcy or in other types of legal representation. Of course, it is up to you when you want to provide it, you may want to wait until you actually retain the attorney. Maybe it is a way for the attorney to determine who is serious about the services he or she offers.

By law, we are required to provide this information to the defense attorneys. It allows them the ability to do background checks on you as well as investigate your past and current issues.

Full Answer

Why would an attorney ask for a Social Security number?

Maybe it is a way for the attorney to determine who is serious about the services he or she offers. As has been pointed out, depending on the nature of issue at hand, the SSN may be necessary for the attorney to gather the necessary background to actually help you...

Is my Social Security number protected from the defendant?

There was a time when your social security number was protected from disclosure. However, now, the defendant is entitled to it so they can ascertain whether you received any medicare or medical benefits. If you did those liens must be satisfied from any settlement funds.

Do you need a Social Security number to file a lawsuit?

There is no need for it unless there is some claim of identity theft or something. There should be some compelling reason for the other side to need a social security number and they should have to prove that reason to a court. Too much information is available once a social security number is given out.

Why would the other side need a Social Security number?

There should be some compelling reason for the other side to need a social security number and they should have to prove that reason to a court. Too much information is available once a social security number is given out.

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Can I refuse to give my Social Security number?

Anyone can refuse to disclose his or her number, but the requester can refuse its services if you do not give it. Businesses, banks, schools, private agencies, etc., are free to request someone's number and use it for any purpose that does not violate a federal or state law.

Is asking for Social Security number Legal?

Ask questions when they ask for your Social Security number. There is no law that prevents businesses from asking for your SSN. And you may be denied service if you don't give the number. If giving your SSN to a business doesn't seem reasonable to you, ask if you can show another form of identification.

Why would someone need your Social Security number?

A dishonest person who has your Social Security number can use it to get other personal information about you. Identity thieves can use your number and your good credit to apply for more credit in your name. Then, when they use the credit cards and don't pay the bills, it damages your credit.

Can my identity be stolen with the last four digits of my Social Security number?

As long as a hacker or scammer has access to other personal information such as your name and address, they can use the last four digits of your SSN (in most cases) to open accounts in your name, steal your money and government benefits, or even get healthcare and tax refunds in your name.

Is asking for a Social Security number a Hipaa violation?

First, and most importantly, the HIPAA regulations do not specifically prohibit the use or disclosure of an individual's Social Security number.

What happens if I accidentally give out my Social Security number?

You may reach the FTC's identity theft hotline toll free at 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338) or visit their website at www.ftc.gov/idtheft. Additional Resources: Protecting Your Social Security Number from Identity Theft. IRS Taxpayer Guide to Identity Theft.

How would I know if someone is using my Social Security number?

Telltale signs that your social security number has been hacked#1: Unexplainable changes in your credit score. ... #2: Inaccurate banking information. ... #3: Changes in your email/snail mail. ... #4: False employment records. ... #5: Correspondence from the IRS. ... #6: Messages from credit agencies. ... #7: A fraudulent tax return.

What can people do with your Social Security number?

Once someone has your Social Security number, they can essentially become you. They may be able to collect tax refunds, collect benefits and income, commit crimes, make purchases, set up phone numbers and websites, establish residences, and use health insurance—all in your name.

Lee Alan Thompson

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Daniel M. Luisi Esq

No! Don't give your social. He doesn't need that to start a divorce proceeding against you. And don't sign any affidavit of defendant. Please talk to a lawyer before you have any other communication with your husband's lawyer.

Can a defendant disclose your social security number?

There was a time when your social security number was protected from disclosure . However, now, the defendant is entitled to it so they can ascertain whether you received any medicare or medical benefits. If you did those liens must be satisfied from any settlement funds.

Do you have to give your SS number?

You don't have to give your SS#, but more than likely, if you don't, the other side will ask the Court to order you to and if you don't comply with the judge's order, the judge is likely to kick your case out of court. The other side is allowed to discover anything that could likely be admissible in the case. Presuming you have an injury case, almost all your medical records will be indexed by SS# and they will need the number to get those records. Your income records will be indexed that way too. The other side is entitled to get those records if you are claiming injuries and lost income. Good luck.

Why did my aunt ask for my social security number?

It is possible that the social security numbers were requested because the aunt wanted to name you and your sons as beneficiaries to a payable on death account with a bank, or an IRA account. It might also have been for life insurance policies, although not all providers would have asked for such information in order...

Do you need SS for a beneficiary?

It is not uncommon for a beneficiary form, such as for an IRA, to require (or at least request) a SS for a beneficiary. Also, while you don't need the SS of a person you name in your will, when the person dies it is typical to need the beneficiary's social in order to file necessary tax returns such as trust/estate income tax returns.

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