What is an SSN Trace? | Checkr (2024)

Many pre-employment background checks begin with a Social Security number (SSN) Trace. An SSN Trace is an important pre-discovery tool in a comprehensive background screening and assessing the information can help employers conduct more thorough additional searches.

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Here's what you need to know about SSN Trace, including how they work, which details you'll receive, and how to run one.

What is an SSN Trace? | Checkr (1)

What is an SSN Trace?

An SSN Trace searches databases (including lending institutions, utilities, schools, and credit card companies) for a Social Security number. The information returned to the consumer reporting agency (CRA) conducting the search may include the year and state in which the number was issued by the Social Security Administration, associated names, and address history.

Keep in mind, though, that an SSN Trace doesn't confirm the identity of the candidate – it can only provide indication of the validity of the SSN provided. For example, if the SSN is associated with any other names or is listed on the Social Security Administration’s Death Master File. As a result, employers may wish to perform additional identity checks, such as Knowledge-Based Authentication, as part of their onboarding process.

SSN Traces are used as a “pointer” search – a screening used to cast a wide net when conducting a comprehensive background check. The results of an SSN Trace will identify jurisdictions where employers may wish to conduct additional searches, such as a criminal background check. Generally, SSN Trace results aren’t reportable and shouldn’t be used for Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) purposes.

What shows up on a Social Security background check?

An SSN Trace, sometimes also referred to as a Social Security background check, will return information related to a Social Security number, which may include:

  • The year the SSN was issued
  • The state in which the SSN was issued
  • Associated names, including aliases and maiden names
  • Recent and associated addresses

However, depending on the CRA, the results returned to employers on a background screening report may vary.

When screening candidates, one of the most efficient and compliant ways to run an SSN Trace background check is to partner with an FCRA-compliant background check provider.

A DIY approach to background checks may make the hiring process more challenging. For instance, while employers can ask for a Social Security number on job applications, candidates aren't legally obligated to provide one. If a candidate feels uncomfortable sharing that information, working with a CRA can help as the candidate will provide their details directly and securely to the CRA. Checkr, for example, truncates and encrypts SSNs in its protected databases to ensure data privacy.

A CRA can also help employers conduct additional background screenings based on the results on an SSN Trace while navigating the complexities of employment laws, such as the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).

What employers need in a background check

Starting a background check with an SSN Trace is important because it can help you spot potential issues early on in the hiring process. For example, if there is a discrepancy between the candidate’s submitted information and the information associated with the Social Security number. If they don't match, it could be a potential sign of identity theft or a false identity, or it could be a case of user error when inputting the numbers. An SSN Trace may also help ensure that additional background checks are conducted on the correct individual.

You can also use an SSN Trace as a stepping stone for more in-depth screenings. For example, you can use the associated addresses as a starting point for a county criminal background check.

Get a background check with Checkr

No matter the extent of your background check process, an SSN Trace can be an important first step. Checkr’s easy-to-order packages include an SSN Trace to help employers conduct comprehensive background checks.

We offer background screening options for businesses of all sizes, including criminal searches, employment and education verification, MVR checks, and drug testing. Our advanced platform helps to save time and reduce human error, while our built-in compliance tools make your hiring process more efficient.

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Disclaimer

The resources provided here are for educational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. We advise you to consult your own counsel if you have legal questions related to your specific practices and compliance with applicable laws.

What is an SSN Trace? | Checkr (2)What is an SSN Trace? | Checkr (3)

About the author

Sara Korolevich serves as checkr.com’s editor and content manager. In this role, she produces educational resources for employers on a broad range of screening topics, including background check compliance and best practices. She also writes about Checkr’s company and product news to keep customers updated and informed.

What is an SSN Trace? | Checkr (2024)

FAQs

What is an SSN Trace? | Checkr? ›

An SSN Trace, sometimes also referred to as a Social Security background check, will return information related to a Social Security number, which may include: The year the SSN was issued. The state in which the SSN was issued. Associated names, including aliases and maiden names. Recent and associated addresses.

What is the purpose of SSN trace? ›

The intended purpose of the SSN trace is to confirm that the SSN is valid and matches the job candidate's name and date of birth. It reveals that the number is issued, valid, and associated with the candidate's name and birth date. It also reveals any discrepancies in the information the applicant has submitted.

What is the difference between SSN verification and SSN trace? ›

An SSN Trace pulls a wide range of information regarding the SSN in question, and is typically used during pre-employment background checks. SSN verification is often used after hiring to confirm the name and SSN number of an employee matches the Social Security Administration's record, using Form I-9.

How far back does a SSN trace go? ›

Therefore, the length of time backwards will depend on how long ago the person turned 18. For a person who is 22, for instance, the longest the social security search can go is 4 years. The second limitation is legal. Most legislations limit the range of background checks to seven years.

What does SSN trace unperformable mean? ›

Certain reports will be returned as “unperformable” if we were unable to process the search. This is typically caused by invalid order information, i.e. An incorrect drivers license number or if additional information was requested and not provided by the candidate.

Why is there an SSN trace on my credit report? ›

SSN Traces are used as a “pointer” search – a screening used to cast a wide net when conducting a comprehensive background check. The results of an SSN Trace will identify jurisdictions where employers may wish to conduct additional searches, such as a criminal background check.

What data is found on a Social Security trace? ›

An SSN trace, also known as as Social Security background check, returns information related to a Social Security number. This information can include when and where the SSN was issued, as well as any associated names like aliases and maiden names.

What is the difference between E-Verify and SSN trace? ›

E-Verify is the only way to to receive employment eligibility verifications directly from the SSA and DHS. Avoid confusion with the SSN Trace, which is used to retrieve address history, employment history, validity of the SSN, etc., to support and supplement your pre-employment background checks.

How can I check if my SSN is being used? ›

Identity Theft: If you think an identity thief is using your SSN to work or to collect benefits, call the Social Security Fraud Hotline at 1-800-269-0271. If you think someone may be using your SSN to work, check your Social Security Personal Earnings and Benefit Statement.

Can someone be tracked by Social Security number? ›

If you have a legitimate reason, a licensed private investigator has access to resources that may be able to locate someone by SSN. There are also places on the Dark Web that sell stolen identities, including social security numbers. But generally, you can't just put a SSN in a search engine and find someone.

How do I check my SSN record? ›

Your Social Security Statement (Statement) is available to view online by opening a my Social Security account. It is useful for people of all ages who want to learn about their future Social Security benefits and current earnings history.

Can we track SSN status? ›

If you have questions or need help understanding how to check the status of your Social Security application online, call our toll-free number at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your Social Security office.

Can I look up someone by their Social Security number? ›

If you have someone's Social Security Number, you'll be able to get extra information about them using an SSN reverse lookup, which can help legitimate Social Security Number users understand more about an individual and verify their identity.

Why is my SSN trace not working? ›

Please try enrolling again if you believe your SSN trace may have failed due to one of the common reasons below: The use of or absence of a hyphen or apostrophe. The use of or absence of a middle name. Incorrect entry of name, address, and/or date of birth.

What is a social security trace with aka? ›

A social security trace is a report that will return all current and reported addresses associated with a specific individual based on his or her social security number. If there are alternate names (aliases or also known as [AKA]) these are reported also.

How do I know if I passed my background check accurate? ›

If you want to know whether you passed your check, you can either reach out to the employer who requested it or reach out to the background check company itself. Ultimately, you can fight for yourself, especially if you fail your background record check.

What information does SSN reveal? ›

Your Social Security number serves as the primary means to confirm your identity. It's uniquely tied to your name and date of birth. In cases where individuals share common names, additional details like your middle name, driver's license number, and previous addresses help establish your specific identity.

What is the purpose of the Social Security number disclosure? ›

Some government agencies use the SSN for identification and administrative purposes. The private sector uses the SSN for similar purposes, generally, without restraint. For example, the private sector may refuse service or credit, or may deny admission or membership, etc., to anyone unwilling to furnish their SSN.

What is the main purpose of SSN? ›

Introduction. P.L. The Social Security number ( SSN ) was created in 1936 for the sole purpose of tracking the earnings histories of U.S. workers, for use in determining Social Security benefit entitlement and computing benefit levels.

Can someone be tracked by a Social Security number? ›

If you have a legitimate reason, a licensed private investigator has access to resources that may be able to locate someone by SSN. There are also places on the Dark Web that sell stolen identities, including social security numbers. But generally, you can't just put a SSN in a search engine and find someone.

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