Caution:

An individual with an ITIN who later becomes eligible to work in the United States must obtain an SSN. If the individual is currently eligible to work in the United States, instruct the individual to apply for an SSN and follow the instructions under Applying for an SSN , earlier in this section. Don’t use an ITIN in place of an SSN on Form W-2.

Verification of SSNs.

Employers and authorized reporting agents can use the Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS) to instantly verify that an employee name matches an SSN for up to 10 names and SSNs (per screen) at a time, or submit an electronic file of up to 250,000 names and SSNs and usually receive the results the next business day. Go to SSA.gov/employer/ssnv.htm for more information. A person may have a valid SSN but not be authorized to work in the United States. Employers may use E-Verify at E-Verify.gov to confirm the employment eligibility of newly hired employees.

Accessing the SSNVS.

The SSA’s BSO is used to access the SSNVS. BSO users will need a social security online account. You can use an existing Login.gov credential or ID.me credential. If you don’t have a Login.gov credential or an ID.me credential, you’ll need to create one. For more information, go to the SSA’s website at SSA.gov/bso .