Your government issued identification number is a unique code assigned by a public authority to verify your identity or entity status. In the United States, the most common examples are the Social Security Number (SSN) assigned by the Social Security Administration and the Employer Identification Number (EIN) assigned by the IRS. Other identifiers include state driver’s license or state ID numbers, and for some individuals an Alien Registration Number (ARN) or other federal identifiers. This guide explains where to locate these numbers on issued documents, how to confirm their authenticity, and why protecting them is essential.
What Is a Government Issued Identification Number
A government issued identification number is a string of digits or characters issued by an official governmental body to identify a person or organization for legal, tax, or administrative purposes. The federal government, states, and territories issue a range of identifiers for different functions. These numbers appear on official paperwork, cards, or correspondence and are not typically assigned by third parties. In practice, everyday citizens most often interact with their SSN and, when applicable, an EIN or state ID number. Understanding which identifier applies to your situation is the first step to finding and using it correctly.
Common Types of Identification Numbers
Social Security Number (SSN)
The SSN is issued by the Social Security Administration to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible noncitizens for tax and benefit purposes. It is used for employment, tax reporting, and as a widespread identifier for financial and government services. You are generally assigned one number for life, and it is central to many official processes.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An EIN is issued by the Internal Revenue Service to businesses, estates, and certain trusts for tax and banking purposes. It functions similarly to a Social Security Number but for entities rather than individuals. Sole proprietors, partnerships, corporations, and nonprofits may all require an EIN when hiring employees, opening business bank accounts, or filing certain tax returns.
State Identification Numbers
Each state issues a unique number on its driver’s licenses and state identification cards. This number is used to track licensing and driving records and is accepted as identification for a wide range of services. Some states also assign separate Medicaid or state benefit case numbers, which serve distinct purposes.
Other Government Identifiers
- Alien Registration Number (ARN): Assigned to noncitizens in certain immigration statuses.
- Military ID Number: Issued to service members and appears on their Common Access Card or DEERS enrollment.
- Passport Number: The unique identifier printed on the front of a U.S. passport.
Where to Find Your Identification Number on Documents
Knowing where to look on each document reduces frustration and speeds up form filling. Below are typical locations for the most common identifiers on widely used materials. Always refer to the issuing agency’s official guidance for the most current layout and security features.
Social Security Card
Your SSN is printed on your Social Security card. The card displays your name, date of birth, and the nine-digit number. Treat this card as an official document to be stored securely, not carried routinely in your wallet.
Pay Stubs and Tax Forms
- SSN: Listed prominently on your W-2 and on most pay stubs.
- EIN: Appears on your pay stubs and year-end payroll reports if you are an employer, and on Form 1099-MISC for contractors.
Driver’s License or State ID
Your state ID number is displayed on the front of your driver’s license or state identification card, along with your name, photo, and date of birth. This number is used by law enforcement, the DMV, and many private services that require proof of identity.
Employer and Tax Documents
- EIN: Found on your EIN confirmation notice from the IRS, business bank account opening records, payroll system dashboards, and Form 1041 or 1120 returns for entities.
- ARN: Listed on your immigration documents, Form I-94 printout, and any USCIS correspondence.
Passports and Military IDs
- Passport Number: Clearly printed on the data page of your passport book or card.
- Military ID: Your number appears on your Common Access Card and in DEERS enrollment records; service-specific IDs may also display it.
How to Confirm and Verify an Identifier
Verifying that an identification number is active and correctly associated with your identity helps prevent problems with official transactions. Taking a cautious, verified approach protects you from misuse and supports accurate record keeping.
Steps to Verify an SSN
- Check your W-2 or Social Security Statement for consistency.
- Create a my Social Security account to view your earnings record and confirm the number on file.
- Do not share the full number unnecessarily; provide it only when required by a trusted entity.
Verify an EIN
- Log in to the IRS Business Account or use the EIN Assistant to see the entity name and number.
- Cross-check the EIN on official IRS notices or your payroll service records.
Verify State and Other IDs
- Ensure the number matches the one on your current license or state ID card.
- Contact the issuing agency if the document looks altered or the number does not match their systems.
Common Reasons You Might Need Your Identification Number
There are many legitimate reasons you may be asked for a government issued identification number. Being prepared with the correct number and understanding when it is appropriate to share it reduces friction and supports your privacy. Always confirm why a request is necessary and how the information will be used.
- Starting a new job: Employers require an SSN or EIN for payroll and tax reporting.
- Filing taxes: The IRS uses your SSN or EIN to process returns and issue refunds.
- Opening a bank account: Financial institutions verify identity and tax identification numbers.
- Applying for licenses and benefits: State agencies use state ID or case numbers.
Protecting Your Identification Information
Because these numbers grant access to important services, protecting them is a priority. Limit who you share them with, question why a request is made, and store physical cards and documents in a secure location. Monitor your credit and account activity regularly to detect unauthorized use early.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Can I find my SSN online if I have lost my card? | Yes, if you have a my Social Security account in good standing, you can view your SSN on file. | Official government source |
| Will the IRS ever call to demand immediate payment or threaten arrest? | No. The IRS contacts taxpayers by mail first and never demands immediate payment over the phone. | Official guidance |
| Can an employer require my SSN on a job application? | Employers may ask for an SSN for payroll and tax purposes, but timing varies; some request it after a conditional offer. | Employment law guidance |
| What should I do if I suspect identity theft involving my identification number? | Contact the FTC, place a fraud alert or credit freeze with credit bureaus, and notify the affected agencies (SSA, IRS, etc.). | Official guidance |
| Can I use an ITIN in place of an SSN for employment? | An ITIN is for tax processing only and cannot be used for employment authorization. Check with the SSA for eligible documentation. | Official guidance |
When to Contact the Issuing Agency
If a document is lost, stolen, or altered, contact the issuing office promptly. For SSN issues, reach out to the Social Security Administration; for EIN questions, contact the IRS; for driver’s license problems, contact your state’s DMV. If you believe fraud has occurred, file a report with the appropriate authorities and follow their recommended steps.
Bottom Line
Your government issued identification number is a critical piece of personal information used across employment, tax, financial, and legal contexts. Locate it on the relevant document, verify it when necessary, and store it securely. Being informed about where to find each identifier and when it is appropriate to share it helps you maintain control over your personal and business records.