Why is a SSN required, and what does Checkr do with it?

A Social Security Number (SSN) is required to identify addresses or aliases that a candidate has used, and to serve as pointer information for additional searches. Using the SSN, Checkr can find locations where candidates have lived or worked, using existing data from credit bureaus and other databases. 

In addition, Checkr can query information provided by the Social Security Administration to determine if the SSN matches an individual on the Death Master File (i.e. a person who is reported by the Social Security Administration as being deceased). 

If the SSN matches an individual on the Death Master File or appears to be improperly formatted, then Checkr will reach out to the candidate to collect additional information. The most common reason an exception would be generated is when the candidate submits information with a typo.

Lastly, the SSN can sometimes assist in determining whether a particular record belongs to the candidate if the SSN is made available in the court file.

The SSN trace is not the same as SSN verification. In other words, while SSN traces can identify the candidate’s addresses and aliases, it does not ensure that the candidate is the person whom they say they are. Identity verification is best performed by the company that directly engages the candidate (e.g. the employer or contracting company).