This is just a reminder for those customer (ours and others) that request SSN verifications. Please take note of the last sentence in the reminder.
The Social Security Administration has created a Consent Based Social Security Number Verification (CBSV) system to respond to requests from the business community and government agencies for instantaneous, automated verification of social security numbers for pre-employment purposes. With the creation of this automated verification service Social Security Administration has also levied a .56 cent access fee per verification. There is a good chance that if you request this service from a background check service provider, you will see this levied charge passed on to you in or as part of the service charges your invoices.
The SSA will verify information only with the consent of the SSN number holder and has created a specific Authorization and Release form (SSA-89) which must be completed and signed by the applicant/employee before the CBSV system may be accessed. No alterations may be made to this form, and the authorization is good for only 90 days (unless otherwise indicated by the applicant/employee).
As of November 10, 2008, CII will no longer be able to confirm an applicant’s social security number without a copy of the signed Authorization and Release form (SSA-89). The CBSV system will verify whether a name and Social Security Number (SSN) match the data in SSA’s records. The information provided is matched against SSA’s Master File of Social Security Numbers (SSNs), using Social Security number, name, date of birth and sex (if available). It also provides a death indicator if appropriate. This Authorization and Release form (SSA-89) should be submitted with your original request for a background investigation.
If your organization does not process a Social Security Administration Search then the Authorization and Release form (SSA-89) is not required. This search should not be confused with the Social Security Trace/Cross Reference Plus that is processed through the Credit Bureaus.
