Government-issued identification numbers are one of the most important things in the life of American citizens. It is one of the most important components in the process of identity verification and administrative processes. In this post, you will be able to learn more about identification numbers issued by the government.
Definition of Government-Issued Identification Number
A government-issued identification number refers to a numerical code assigned to someone by the United States federal or local state government. This kind of number is also called a personal identification number or ID number. It is unique, meaning there will be no individuals who share the same number. A government-issued identification number is created to identify the individuals. It is usually used for a number of official purposes. In general, its main purposes include establishing the identity of someone and facilitating the provision of important services by the government. With this number, the government will be able to maintain accurate records, prevent identity fraud, ensure the proper allocation of resources, and so on.
Kinds of Government-Issued Identification Numbers
There are several kinds of identification numbers issued by the government of the United States. The details of these identification numbers can be found below:
1. Social Security Number (SSN)
Social Security Number, which is also more known as SSN in short, refers to a unique nine-digit number issued by an independent agency of the United States government called the Social Security Administration or SSA to the United States citizens, permanent residents, and temporary working residents. A lot of citizens of the United States have received this number since they were born. As for non-citizens, they usually receive one through certain channels. If one wants to apply for an SSN, they have to provide necessary documentation and visit a local Social Security Office.
Initially, SSN was used for the Social Security Administration to track the accounts of individuals. However, it has now become a de facto national identification number for a few other things, including for employment, taxation, credit applications, tracking earnings, and eligibility for Social Security benefits.
2. Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
The individual taxpayer identification number is known as ITIN in short. It is issued by the Internal Revenue Service or IRS to everyone who is required to have a taxpayer identification number but is not able to get a Social Security Number or SSN. While ITIN and SSN are similar, they are two different things. What sets ITIN from SSN is that it is for tax-related matters and not for employment authorization or eligibility for Social Security benefits.
This individual taxpayer identification number can be used for several purposes, such as filing tax returns, fulfilling tax obligations, and reporting income. In order to get an ITIN, it is a must for the applicants to complete Form W-7. Once they have successfully completed the form, they have to submit it to the IRS. Not only the form but they also have to submit supporting documents.
3. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
The employer identification number or EIN consists of a nine-digit unique identifier. This one is issued to businesses, non-profit organizations, and other entities by the Internal Revenue Service or IRS. In short, it was created for tax and identification purposes. The number is mainly used to fulfil the obligation of the employer, to track the financial activities, and to do different kinds of financial transactions.
If you plan to start a business or hire employees you should get an employer identification number, which is important for businesses. Aside from that, it is also crucial for those who want to establish a non-profit organization. By having this kind of number, you will be able to do several things, such as opening bank accounts, filing taxes, and conducting a number of different financial transactions.
If you want to get an employer identification number, all that you have to do is to submit Form SS-4 to the Internal Revenue Service or IRS. There are a lot of ways to apply for it. The options include by online, by fax, or by mail. Feel free to pick any way you prefer. In case you are abroad, you can apply via telephone.
4. Driver’s License Number
Driver’s license number is the type of identification number issued by the state to everyone who has a valid driver’s license. This one is a unique identifier and evidence of identity and is important for a number of different kinds of legal and administrative purposes. The number serves as a permit that allows that individual to drive a motor vehicle. Besides, it is also used for a few things, such as verification, record-keeping, and accessing personal driving history.
5. State Identification Card Number
The state identification card number is the number written in the state identification card. For those who are not familiar with this number, it is issued by many states to those who do not have driver’s licenses. Hence, it is similar to a driver’s license number. Just like the other numbers mentioned above, state identification card number is also an important identifier that can be used for many purposes, including to open bank accounts, verify age or residency, and access specific services. Basically, it plays a vital role in establishing personal identity and fulfilling legal requirements.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the identification number issued by the government of the United States is part of the daily life of American citizens. It is named as one of the most crucial components in the process of identity verification and administrative processes. There are several kinds of identification numbers issued by the government of the United States, either by federal or state government, including Social Security Number or SSN, individual taxpayer identification number or ITIN, employer identification number or EIN, driver’s license number, and state identification card number. All of them have different purposes and the methods to apply for them are also different.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
