Can I collect social security numbers from participants in Arizona? What are the requirements?

Yes, you can collect Social Security numbers from participants in Arizona under certain circumstances.

Requirements for Collecting Social Security Numbers in Arizona

According to AZRS 44-1373.02 ^[2.1], a person or entity can print any sequence of numbers contained in a Social Security number on any card required for the individual to receive products or services provided by the person or entity, as long as the sequence of numbers is not more than five and is reasonably identifiable as being part of an individual’s Social Security number. Additionally, a person or entity can print any sequence of numbers contained in a Social Security number on any materials that are mailed to the individual, unless state or federal law requires the Social Security number to be on the document to be mailed. This paragraph does not prohibit the mailing of documents to the individual that include Social Security numbers or any sequence of numbers contained in a Social Security number that is sent as part of an application or enrollment process or to establish, amend or terminate an account, contract or policy or to confirm the accuracy of the Social Security number or sequence of numbers.

Furthermore, R6-12-307 of AZAC Title 6, Chapter 12, Article 3, Section 7 ^[1.1] states that to qualify for financial assistance from the Department of Economic Security in Arizona, an assistance unit member shall furnish a Social Security number. If a member of an assistance unit lacks a Social Security number, the Department shall assist the person in applying for an SSN through procedures established between the Department and the United States Social Security Administration (SSA). The Department shall obtain verification of Social Security numbers through contact with the SSA.

Exceptions

It is important to note that there are exceptions to the above requirements. For example, AZRS 44-1373.01 ^[2.2] states that this article does not apply to the use of Social Security numbers by the Department of Revenue or by a law enforcement agency of Arizona or a law enforcement agency of a county, city, town or other political subdivision of Arizona, except that these agencies must comply with section 44-1373, subsection A, paragraphs 2 and 5. Additionally, the use of Social Security numbers by an agency of Arizona in its administration of employee payroll, employee benefits, and workers’ compensation matters is exempt from these requirements, except that the agency shall comply with section 44-1373, subsection A, paragraphs 1, 2, 4, and 5.

Conclusion

In summary, you can collect Social Security numbers from participants in Arizona if they are applying for financial assistance from the Department of Economic Security, and the Department must obtain verification of Social Security numbers through contact with the SSA. However, there are exceptions to these requirements, and you should ensure that you comply with all applicable laws and regulations when collecting and using Social Security numbers.

Source(s):

• [1.1] Social Security Number
• [2.1] Restricted use of sequential numbers; definition
• [2.2] Exceptions

Jurisdiction

Arizona

• Privacy