Why isn't an SSI number needed for background checks?

[Orlov556]

Perhaps I misspoke. Its not NCIC, but CLEAN maybe?

[HiredGoon]

Your SSN used to be required. A few years back that was changed making it optional. I leave it off now. Hasn't caused me any issues.

That's only because you're so special

[R L Suehr]

The PICS system returns only the last 4 digits of the SSN to the dealer.

You need only put down the last 4 digits on the forms.

In fact, what is returned to the FFL after keying in the buyer's DL number is:

"The information on the buyer is:

- The last four digits of the social security are _____.
- last name is (spelled out).
- date of birth is ________.

If fhe information is correct, please press 1."

Noah

I've used the last 4 of my ssn since 2009 I believe. Not that there are many people with my name that I know of in the states other than my dad and he's gtg.

This is what I do. If the last four digits are the only thing the ffl gets to hear, the rest isn't needed.

[streaker69]

Do you want the LTCF to morph into some kind of quazi FOID?

For instance, lets say the PSP decide to add that block to the form. Then they make that block mandatory (as SSN is only optional because of previous legal cases) if by no other means then they simply say the form is "incomplete" if the blocks are empty. If they did this, the LTCF would become a de facto FOID, or permit to purchase, (despite not affecting your ability to own a firearm) because you wouldn't be able to complete the form to buy a firearm unless you had that number.

Would this stand up in court? who knows anymore.. Remember, the PSP are legally supposed to destroy background check records and it's illegal to maintain a firearms registry - however, here we are..

How's that really any different than a DL or PAID card being a defacto FOID card? Can you buy a gun from an FFL in PA without one?

[ScotsGuards]

I have a LTCF #, why aren't they using that?

As an FFL I can indeed use your Pa. LCTF as an ID for you to purchase/transfer a firearm. In that case I cannot use the e-pics but call it in. I cannot use the automated menu therefore I must get an operator. The operator then cross references the information on your LCTF with Pa.DOT and then does your instacheck. TaDa!

[Bang]

^^ That figures.....

[abner13]

Don't know if it's still that way , but it used to be that there was some federal law against using the SSN for ID purposes. I think that's why a dedicated drivers license numbers came about. In the Navy , anything that required our SSN , which replaced service/serial number was accompanied by a Privacy Act statement that ya had to sign.

[Hokkmike]

I noticed that when filling out the form. Seems like it would be easy to have cases of mistaken identity without one. However, I guess the odds of someone having the same name and birth date are slim.

The last 4 digits at least are highly recommended. The gov't already know your SSI # anyway.

[str8shooter]

Don't know if it's still that way , but it used to be that there was some federal law against using the SSN for ID purposes. I think that's why a dedicated drivers license numbers came about. In the Navy , anything that required our SSN , which replaced service/serial number was accompanied by a Privacy Act statement that ya had to sign.

I'm not sure if it's a law at the federal or state level, but yes, there is a short list of entities that can insist on you supplying a SSN. Banks, employers, lenders/creditors and in PA, the DMV. Since you have to provide a DL or State ID to purchase a gun in PA, you are, for all intents and purposes providing your SSN. I choose not to include it on my LTCF application or on a form 4473. I've never been denied, but I also never thought about the last 4 digit approach some have mentioned above.

Back in the old days my SSN was my medical insurance ID#, but subsequent laws specifically prohibit that now. I still go to doctors' offices with patient registration forms from the stone age that ask for it, but I never provide it. I've only had one doctor insist I fill in the box (probably the only one that actually looked at the form), so although my first thought was to walk out the door, I made a number up instead.

[TXDMERC73]

cuz we always end up under sniper fire when we use ss numbers