Data Type Description
Social Security numbers are unique, nine-digit numbers issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary (working) residents for taxation, Social Security benefits, and other purposes. Social Security numbers are a primary target for identity thieves. While Social Security numbers are a type of Personally Identifiable Information (PII), the legal requirements for protecting them are much more stringent than for other PII. U-M has not used Social Security numbers as identifiers for students and employees since 2004.
Data Steward: HR Records & Information Services
Examples
- Numbers in this format: 123-45-6789
- Tax forms (W-2, W-4, W-9, 1099, and so on) that require Social Security numbers
- Taxpayer Identification Number—issued by the Social Security Administration or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
- Employer Identification Number—issued by the IRS