Is there a info point for the legal req for showing your SS#.... I need a reference point i.e. cell phone companies or other companies requesting your ss but no req by law to need the info for providing services. I want to restrict my # from being used when not needed and requested from businesses, I live in NY if that helps. thx
You are never "legally required" to give your SS# to any creditor to open an account or cell phone. You can just not apply for the account.
Providing your SS# is also a protection for you in credit transactions. Should someone else with the same, or very similar name default on a debt, it is possible it could be reported on your credit reports, and you mistakenly pinned to the debt. Since there are often very similar names, addresses, etc.; the SS# is used as a "Unique Identification Number".
