Applying for a role, that part of application asked for SS info.

19 Comments

1. AnonymousMarch 21,2023 at 6:23PM UTC

   My background is in HR. I have not done this work for some time, but unless something has changed in recent years, there isn't a way for a potential ER to look up your unemployment records. I have no idea why they are asking this question and I don't see the reason you would need to disclose. You have a right to collect it to help you get by until your next job.

2. AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 12:45AM UTC

   it’s been my experience in HR that there is a WOTC form which an employer, if hiring someone on unemployment or Social Security, or disability is hired, they get a substantial return from the government for hiring individuals in these categories. Hence the questions legitimate but the wrinkle here is, you’re not allowed to ask those questions until after someone’s been hired, that’s the process but I to have been applying for jobs. I Noticed a lot of questions come up prior to even a conversation, the on boarding process which should come later, when a hire is completed is now populated in the application. This is not only wrong it’s so illegal. I don’t understand how it’s becoming more the norm these people need to be reported to the labor board in their state the only way it’s going to stop!! birthdates, drivers license, dates you’ve graduated from schools, no this is after the fact this information is needed only then and with a disclosure from the new hire saying they can check the background date Social Security number, etc. the world has gone insane really bothers me

3. AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 9:07PM UTC

   To your point, let me clarify. We never asked a candidate if they were receiving UI benefits. The only time I ever knew someone was receiving unemployment was when I pulled their resume from the unemployment jobs website. Individuals receiving benefits were required to submit their resume and show that they were available for work. That was a program the company participated in to receive funding for hiring an unemployed person. In 25 years, I only worked for one company utilizing the database and in this program. They were a non-profit.

4. AnonymousMarch 21,2023 at 8:41PM UTC

   I would not provide this information. This invades the applicant’s privacy and is of dubious relevance, at best.

5. AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 10:51AM UTC

   Not sure of why they're asking. They would find out if you were hired and they sent you a paycheck though, as it is reported to unemployment just through systems. Unemployment would say 'hey looks like you got a check' type of response, if you're currently getting those benefits. How about just ask them?

6. Maggie StoneMarch 22,2023 at 12:07PM UTC

   I have to agree. I never give this out as part of the application. If it’s required, and they can’t give a specific reason, move on.

7. Tricia BurroughsMarch 22,2023 at 12:13PM UTC

   Do not provide until you are filling out I9 paperwork to prove citizenship once you have the job

8. AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 2:01PM UTC

   These are questions that are not allowed on applications. Check with your state EEO office to verify. Never supply an SSN unless you are hired.

9. misskelleypMarch 22,2023 at 4:03PM UTC

   HUGE red flag. Do not provide a SSN on an application. Honestly, why do they care if you're collecting unemployment? I guess if you're unemployed they think you could start quicker? I would be very leary of a company that asked for this kind of information.

10. AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 4:54PM UTC

    Never ever ever ever put your social security number into an application. While it is not illegal to request it it is never recommended or suggested to do this up front pre-hire. For the response to the numbers use something like the 123-45- combo or something like that. Save a screen shot so that you can recall if if/when you get an offer and do a correction. On the questions regarding being unemployed many employers do ask that but IMHO I would decline to respond or just say no on both. These days with the advent of automation companies are doing it all robotically and often the most junior staff members set up these systems and not always with legal or ethical matters in hand.

11. MichaelaMarch 22,2023 at 6:12PM UTC

    Thank you

    unfortunately I already provided it

12. Morganne GervaisMarch 22,2023 at 9:10PM UTC

    What I have done, and is perfectly acceptable and avoids a lot of drama is to give the last four digits of my SS# if the system allows. If hired, I would provide the full number for payroll and taxation purposes.

13. AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 7:57PM UTC

    Employers used to request SS numbers so they could run credit checks on you. If you were interviewing for a financial job or any job that handled money, they wanted to know you knew how to handle yours, or that you hadn't declared bankruptcy. Additionally, when the company does finally do a verification of employment they will see all of the places you were employed. So best to be honest.

14. AnonymousMarch 22,2023 at 10:37PM UTC

    I have NEVER provided by SS# at the application level. You only share that once you've accepted an offer.

15. IntentionGirl299847March 22,2023 at 10:56PM UTC

    Nope. Only if you give them your SS number which of course you won't. Unemployment is none of their business. Don't give out bank account numbers either!

16. AnonymousMarch 23,2023 at 1:02AM UTC

    Yes, I know for a fact that these questions are required to be answered when applying to any Disney owned company. The amount of personal info requested was alarming.

17. Shelly EdwardsMarch 23,2023 at 1:21PM UTC

    No they cannot ask you for your social security information on a job application. That is illegal. They can only ask for your information post offer. They can make you a job offer, contingent upon background check, credit check, and your social may be a part of that process. They may also ask you for your unemployment history during the applicant process as well because there are incentive programs for employers who hire candidates out of unemployment. You shouldn’t have to answer that question if you are not comfortable. Basically if questions of too personal of a nature are asked while applying, it’s a red flag to me.

18. Valerie RiegerMarch 31,2023 at 12:52PM UTC

    It is not illegal for a potential employer may ask for a candidate's SSN on an application. However, candidates are not obligated to provide the information.

19. AnonymousMarch 24,2023 at 2:12PM UTC

    There is an ATS called payroll (I believe) that asks for your ss#. I type in 555-55-5555. In regards to the questions about being on unemployment. Again, I believe that hiring employees with those criteria helps the company with state or federal guidelines.