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The Daily Insight

Do you need a Social Security number to get a cell phone

Author

Rachel Hickman

Published Apr 13, 2026

The answer is no you don’t have to give out your social security number.

Can I get a cell phone without Social Security number?

The answer is no you don’t have to give out your social security number.

Do you need SSN to buy iPhone?

Yes, you need a Federal Identification Number or FID to buy a iPhone from Apple or AT&T in the US.

Do phone companies need your SSN?

It is normal for companies that provide internet, cable or phone service to ask for a prospective customer’s Social Security number so they can run a credit check. … But it’s within a company’s right to require a credit check before providing service.

Does Verizon ask for SSN?

Verizon will never ask you for your social security number, login or PIN.

Who requires Social Security number?

Social Security numbers are used to report a person’s wages to the government and to determine a person’s eligibility for Social Security benefits. You need a Social Security number to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and receive some other government services.

Does AT&T require a Social Security number?

Your Social Security Number is required by AT&T. By providing your Social Security Number, you give credit check consent and reporting authorization as follows: … *Periodically obtain and use my credit report and other credit information from any source in connection with AT&T’s offering of wireless and other services.

Why does Verizon need Social Security?

Verizon wanted your Social Security number in order to do a credit check before giving you service. This is a common practice in the cell phone industry because they are extending you credit, allowing you to make calls each month and run up charges before your bill arrives.

Who needs SSN?

Who has the right to request your SSN? Federal law mandates that state Departments of Motor Vehicles, tax authorities, welfare offices, and other governmental agencies request your SS number as proof that you are who you claim to be.

Can I refuse to give my Social Security number?

Yes, you can refuse unless you’re legally required to provide your Social Security number (SSN). However, there’s also no law preventing businesses from asking for it or refusing you service if you don’t provide it.

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Why does AT&T need social security number to port number?

The only reason to request your SSN is to do a credit check for a new account. If you are porting in the number to an existing account, no SSN should be needed.

Can I use itin for AT&T?

Using an ITIN in place of an SSN shouldn’t be a problem; you’ll have to complete the process in store though. If you have any other questions about our services, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for considering AT&T! Need help?

How do I obtain a Social Security number?

  1. Apply in person at a Social Security office;
  2. Complete an application;
  3. Provide a statement explaining the reasons for needing a new number;
  4. Provide current, credible, third-party evidence documenting the reasons for needing a new number; and.

How do you get a Social Security number?

You can obtain the address of the nearest Social Security Office at using the Social Security Office Locator. You will need to complete an Application for a Social Security Card, Form SS-5-FS (PDF / 5 pages / 125 KB) and provide the original documents listed under Option 2, above.

How long does it take to get Social Security number?

You should receive your SSN card within two weeks after we have everything we need to process your application, including verification of your immigration document with the USCIS. If we are unable to immediately verify your immigration document with the USCIS, it may take two additional weeks to receive your card.

Do cable companies ask for social security number?

A cable company usually is not authorized by law to ask for your SSN and you can refuse to share it if you want, according to Social Security Online.

How do I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number?

To see if your Social Security number is being used by someone else for employment purposes, review your Social Security Statement at to look for suspicious activity. Finally, you’ll want to use additional scrutiny by regularly checking your bank and credit card accounts online.

What is needed to open a cell phone account?

1 – You usually only need a form of ID such as a state issued ID or drivers license. 2 – It completely depends on your credit worthiness or lack thereof. If you don’t have any credit history in the US, you could be looking at a high deposit for service as well as a down payment for a phone if you use Next.

How much does it cost to start an account with AT&T?

The AT&T Unlimited Starter plan costs $65 for your first line and comes with unlimited talk time, texting, and data in Mexico and Canada, along with unlimited texting from the US to over 120 countries. The plan includes 5G access, standard-definition (SD) streaming, and standard mobile security.

Do you need an ID for a phone plan?

ID is required to access an account which is necessary to purchase a phone. In addition to put a phone on an installment plan requires an ID to be present.

How hard is it to get a new Social Security number?

Yes, but it is not easy. If you can show that you are in danger due to domestic violence or other abuse, or you are experiencing significant, ongoing financial harm due to identity theft, Social Security can assign you a different number.

How do new immigrants get SSN?

Request a Social Security number card as part of your Department of State immigrant visa application. The U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will share your information with us. List your correct address and zip code. We will mail your card to the address you give.

Do immigrants get Social Security numbers?

Generally, only noncitizens authorized to work in the United States by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can get an SSN.

Can I get a Social Security card without a green card?

The Social Security Card is usually only issued to employment-based or nonimmigrant visa holders or green card holders. … You must obtain an immigrant or nonimmigrant residence permit or be in the process before applying for a SSN.

Can we get SSN online?

You can use your personal my Social Security account to request a replacement Social Security number (SSN) card online if you: Are a U.S. citizen age 18 years or older with a U.S. mailing address. Are not requesting a name change or any other change to your card.

How do I get a first time Social Security card?

To apply for an original card, you must provide at least two documents to prove age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or current lawful, work-authorized immigration status. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have DHS work authorization, you must prove that you have a valid non-work reason for requesting a card.