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Identity Development

Social Security Number Trace (Person Search)

Using the name, address, date of birth, and Social Security Number supplied by your applicant on the Disclosure and Release Form, the Social Security Trace helps you verify the accuracy of the information and identify potential fraud. The Social Security Trace, also known as a Person Search, provides a list of previous addresses as well as names (AKA’s) associated with the applicant’s social security number. This information is pulled through a variety of different sources. For example, data is compiled when an applicant applies for credit, secures a lease, registers to vote, signs up for utilities, or other instances where an application is required. This search is an essential first step in the screening process, as it provides a roadmap to help select the courts which need to be researched to obtain criminal records.

Information Reported:

  • Previous addresses associated with SSN
  • All names associated with SSN
  • Whether SSN belongs to a deceased person
  • Year/State SSN was issued*
    *The SSA changed the way the SSN’s were issued on June 25, 2011. Year and State of issuance cannot be determined on SSN’s issued after this date.

Average Turn-Around:

This is a instant search. Turn-around is 24 hours due to Occuscreen’s audit process of information.

Limitations/Notes:

The SSN trace should only be used as an investigative tool to help expand the parameters of the criminal check by identifying previous names and addresses an applicant may have used, and as a warning that the number may be invalid. The information obtained in this search should never be used by itself as the basis to make an employment decision.

Consent Based Social Security Verification

Search Summary:

This search provides a verification of the applicant’s SSN via direct access to the Social Security Administration for both pre-hire and post-offer situations.

Information Reported:

Social Security Number is matched with:

  • Name
  • Date of Birth
  • Gender Code
  • Death indicator if deceased

Average Turn-Around:

1-3 Business Days

Limitations/Notes:

The SSA currently requires an actual signature on an additional consent form for this search and does not permit an electronic signature. The CBSV cannot be part of a paperless system and requires the obtaining of a separate release from the applicant. Please note, this search does not demonstrate the right to work in the United States, which can only be confirmed through the E-Verify process.