Is it legit for long-distance sign-up to require SSN?

[blahsome]

Is it an industry-standard practice for a long-distance carrier to ask for my social security number when I'm trying to switch to it? My last switch is a long-time ago, and I don't really remember if I had to provide the SSN.

Thank.

 

[Mill]

Yes.

 

[dman]

I've been asked for last 4 digits but never the full number. If you called them and they are a big co like Sprint / AT&T / MCI it's probably ok (but it surprises me), if they called you I'd run.

 

[Lucky]

my guess is they are asking so that they can report to the IRS a promotion they are providing you...

 

[T2T III]

Originally posted by: Lucky
my guess is they are asking so that they can report to the IRS a promotion they are providing you...

They probably want to do a credit check - to see if you've been paying all of your bills on time. I'd tell the to go screw themselves.

 

[Nyical]

I was asked the same question when I switched my long distance carrier, asked them why they needed it, didnt
get a ggod enough reason so I told them no, but I still signed up with them.

 

[hdeck]

Originally posted by: Millennium
Yes.

 

[Crimzon]

I never give out my SSN unless I absolutely have to. So I just tell them no, and if they say ok, next question, that's that. Insurance usually asks for it though -Medical, Car, Home.

 

[Syringer]

If they call you on your home phone they shouldn't..

 

[RossMAN]

It's probably for a credit check.