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

Here is the updated answer to your query:

Collecting Social Security Numbers in Minnesota

In Minnesota, there are specific requirements for collecting Social Security numbers.

According to MNST 256D.045, an individual must provide their Social Security number to the county agency or submit proof that an application has been made to be eligible for general assistance under sections 256D.01 to 256D.21. However, this provision does not apply to the determination of eligibility for emergency general assistance under section 256D.06, subdivision 2. This provision also applies to eligible children under the age of 18 effective July 1, 1997.

In addition, MNAC 8200.9310 outlines the treatment of voter registration applications in Minnesota. Subpart 2 defines verification as matching the information provided by the applicant on the voter registration application for all of the following categories with the information in the same categories of the database maintained by the Department of Public Safety or in the database of the Social Security Administration if the applicant has no driver’s license or identification card: name, date of birth, Minnesota driver’s license or Minnesota state identification card number, or last four digits of Social Security number, if the applicant has not been issued a Minnesota driver’s license or Minnesota state identification card.

Security and Confidentiality Requirements

It is important to note that the collection and storage of Social Security numbers must comply with security and confidentiality requirements. MNAC 8200.9325 requires all authorized users of the statewide registration system to be identified uniquely in the manner provided by the Secretary of State. No access to the statewide registration system will be allowed to any person not identified as an authorized user of the system. To ensure that information obtained from the statewide registration system is being used in the manner provided by law, the Secretary of State shall insert verification records into the statewide registration system. The verification records must not be included on any master list or polling place roster. If the Secretary of State has reason to believe that information obtained from the statewide registration system was used in a manner inconsistent with Minnesota Statutes, section 201.091, a report must be immediately transmitted to the appropriate county attorney.

Conclusion

Based on the above information, it is clear that Social Security numbers can be collected in Minnesota, but only under specific circumstances and requirements. It is important to ensure that the collection and storage of Social Security numbers comply with security and confidentiality requirements.

Jurisdiction

Minnesota

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