SSA Tweaks Privacy Rules: More Ways to Share Your SSN Data
Published Date: 11/11/2025
Notice
Summary
The Social Security Administration is updating its records system that holds Social Security numbers and applications. These changes clarify where and who manages the records, simplify some rules, remove duplicates, and add new ways to share info with Homeland Security and other agencies. The updates take effect now, with some new sharing rules starting December 12, 2025, and the public has until then to share their thoughts.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
SSA data used in Do Not Pay reviews
Starting December 12, 2025, SSA may disclose records to the U.S. Department of the Treasury so Treasury can review SSA payment and award eligibility through the Do Not Pay Working System to identify, prevent, or recoup fraud and improper payments when disclosure meets 20 CFR 401.150(c). This can apply to applicants for, or recipients of, Federal funds, including state-administered federally funded programs.
SSA may share immigration status with DHS
Starting December 12, 2025, SSA may disclose information about anyone's citizenship and immigration status to the Department of Homeland Security under 8 U.S.C. 1373(a). This disclosure authority applies to records in the Master Files of SSN Holders and SSN Applications.
State DMVs can verify SSNs for IDs
SSA will disclose SSNs, names, and birthdates to State motor vehicle agencies or state ID programs so those agencies can verify identity information for people applying for driver's licenses or state identification cards. This routine use is part of the Master Files of SSN Holders and SSN Applications.
SSA verifies Title IV aid applicants' SSNs
SSA will provide SSNs and citizenship information to the Department of Education upon request to verify applicants for postsecondary financial assistance under Title IV of the Higher Education Act. This disclosure can affect eligibility determinations for federal student aid.
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