Is there a way to legally obtain someone's SSN?

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 22:23:32 -0500

Hello, I have applied for the upcoming board. However, my recruiter will not send my packet in unless I provide my ex-husband's SSN. I have not had any contact with this person (unfriendly/violent) for 14 years since our divorce. I don't have a copy of his SS card, or any document with his SSN. Is there a legal way to obtain this information? I feel that I am flirting with possible legal consequences by trying to find creative ways to get a hold of this information. (FYI, I asked my recruiter to take this up the chain of command, to see if this requirement can be waived, but just wondering if there's a easier/quicker way to resolve this so my packet can be sent off).

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 7 at 2018 10:33 PM

Sgt Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 07 Feb 2018 22:33:51 -0500

1LT Private RallyPoint Member The information below might help.

http://www.identityhawk.com/Who-Can-Lawfully-Request-My-Social-Security-Number/

Who-Can-Lawfully-Request-My-Social-Security-Number

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 9:13 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:13:35 -0500

I'd be really surprised to learn that you actually had to provide the SSAN for an ex spouse from 14 years ago. Seems to me that just stating "unknown" would suffice. What sort of board is this that you are applying for? What is the form that requests that info?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 10:37 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 10:37:47 -0500

If you've had a case in the Army at any point with your ex, then your recruiter can go to CID or the MP office and obtain it. The recruiter honestly should be helping you out with this, but you can also just call Jag and tell them the situation and ask their advice on it.

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 8 at 2018 8:48 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 08 Feb 2018 20:48:45 -0500

Not sure it's really required, unknown should suffice. Don't know what board would need your ex 14 years ago SSN. Marriage license on file at Courthouse, divorce papers, or the lawyer that filed and/or the court that issued divorce decree. Did you two ever have a joint financial account or file joint tax returns? If so, the custodian or preparer/IRS may have it on file if you don't have any copies. Car loan, mortgage, medical records or anything else is the same. Utility bills, insurance policies same. Plan B - there are websites where you can get almost anything for a fee. Read their terms to ensure it's legal and legit before shelling out $ 40-50. Was he military? That's another pathway if so. Legal aid on base? Agree that it should not be anything underhanded, to be safe. Any recruiter worth his/her salt should be willing to help you with this. Last resort - private investigator, but it will cost you and might get something started with ex. I really doubt it is actually needed.

Response by Maj John Bell made Feb 9 at 2018 12:14 AM

Maj John Bell — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 00:14:02 -0500

I don't understand why the Army needs your ex-husband's SSN. I'd have the recruiter put it in writing, then ask the command if you can speak with a JAG officer.

Response by SFC Alan Payne made Feb 9 at 2018 12:36 AM

SFC Alan Payne — Fri, 09 Feb 2018 00:36:29 -0500

What does a recruiter have to do with you attending a board in the first place? The whole deal sounds weird to me.