Do Social Security Administration Records Reveal Citizenship Status?
When the Social Security Administration (SSA) issues a social security number (SSN), they must consider the applicant's citizenship status. However, the SSA typically does not maintain a separate database of citizenship information. Furthermore, lacking systematic assignment to every citizen, the SSN alone is not a reliable personal identifier.
SSA and Citizenship Information
The SSA does not keep a complete record of citizenship status for individuals. The agency only has an indication of citizenship status if an individual applies for their initial SSN. The requirement for documentary evidence to support the citizenship claim during the application process means that the SSA generally has this information on file.
*SSA and Location Data
The only location data the SSA possesses is relevant when someone is receiving monthly benefits or other forms of assistance. Unless actively using these services, the SSA does not have a system that tracks an individual's residential location.
Given the absence of systematic tracking, the SSN card itself serves primarily as a means of identifying individuals within the SSA database. It lacks a mechanism for authenticating an individual's identity beyond the initial application.
*Voter ID and Social Security Numbers
A fascinating proposal involves the SSA creating a voter ID token for every potential voter. This token, based on the SSN, could validate citizenship status for voting purposes without revealing the actual social security number. Here's how it could work:
If an individual has an SSN, the SSA could allow them to update or create their signature in the database by submitting a signed voter registration form with their SSN as identification. The SSA could extend this system nationwide, offering voter ID based on signature, and using expert system software to compare signatures.This proposal would make use of the SSA's existing database to ensure voter authenticity, thereby providing a secure and efficient mechanism for validating citizenship.
*Current Requirements and Past Practices
The current requirements for verifying citizenship during the SSN application process are stringent. Block 5 of the SS-5 form explicitly asks for the applicant's citizenship status, and they must provide documentary evidence to support this claim. Naturalized citizens are required to notify the SSA of their changed citizenship status.
It is possible that in the past, the evidentiary requirements were less strict, or individuals may have used forged documents to obtain an SSN. However, the process today is designed to ensure accurate and robust verification of citizenship status.
In summary, the SSA does have the capability to track citizenship status through the application process, and this information is used in various authentication and validation scenarios, such as for verified voter IDs.