Social Security Number Verification

The Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS), set up by the Social Security Administration (SSA), allows employers to use the Internet to match their records of employee names and Social Security numbers with those of the Government's before preparing and submitting W-2 forms. You can access the SSNVS at www.socialsecurity.gov/bso/bsowelcome.htm. This is a faster and easier method to use than submitting requests to the SSA by other means, including the telephone verification option.

Verification of data is important for both the employer and its employees. Correct names and numbers are critical to successful processing of wage reports, and unmatched records can cause additional processing costs for the employer. From the employees' standpoint, verified names and numbers allow the Government to properly credit employees' earnings records. Any uncredited earnings can adversely affect future eligibility for Social Security's retirement, disability, and survivors programs.