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

Based on the documents provided, there are restrictions on collecting social security numbers in Colorado.

Prohibition on collecting social security numbers

According to CORS 24-72.3-102, a public entity shall not request a person’s social security number over the phone, internet, or via mail unless the public entity determines receiving the social security number is required by federal law or is essential to the provision of services by the public entity.

Exceptions to the prohibition

A public entity may issue a license, permit, pass, or certificate that contains the holder’s social security number if the issuing authority determines inclusion of the social security number is necessary to further the purpose of the license, pass, or certificate or inclusion is required by federal or state law [3.1].

Child care assistance

Counties in Colorado shall not require Social Security Numbers or cards for household members who apply for child care assistance [4.1].

SNAP eligibility

As a condition of SNAP eligibility, each member of a household participating in or applying for participation in SNAP shall provide a Social Security Number (SSN), or proof that an application for an SSN has been submitted to the SSA. The local office shall not require any household member to submit a Social Security card or other official documents as a means of verifying an SSN. Household members who provide an SSN shall not be denied benefits for failure or inability to present a Social Security card or other official documentation. If individuals have more than one SSN, all numbers shall be required [2.1].

Driver’s license or identification card

An applicant must provide his or her SSN for the issuance of a Colorado driver’s license or identification card [1.4][1.5].

Based on the above information, it is important to determine whether collecting social security numbers is necessary to further the purpose of the service being provided. If it is not necessary, then collecting social security numbers is prohibited. However, there are exceptions to this prohibition, such as for the issuance of licenses, permits, passes, or certificates, or if required by federal or state law. Additionally, social security numbers are required for SNAP eligibility and for the issuance of a Colorado driver’s license or identification card.

Source(s):
Jurisdiction

Colorado