You might be better off doing Social Security Number (SSN) verifications via the existing online method rather than using the new phone system.

The Social Security Administration just announced it’ll discontinue its operator-assisted hotline in favor of an automated system that works like voice-mail jail, where you have to either continually punch numbers or speak clearly into the phone.

The agency’s calling the overhauled system the Telephone Number Employer Verification (TNEV) system, and it’s available beginning 9/21/09. TNEV allows you to verify up to 10 employee names and SSNs (currently five) at one time through a voice response system, without speaking to an agent.

But you can get the same results – faster, and for more SSNs than if you call the agency – by going online. The Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS), a pre-existing system, allows you to:

• verify up to 10 names and SSNs online and receive immediate results. There’s no limit to the number of times the SSN verification Web page may be used within a session
• upload electronic files of up to 250,000 names and SSNs and usually receive results the next government business day.

You must register with SSA’s Business Services Online to use both SSNVS and TNEV. (So, since you’re online anyway, why bother to use the phone system?)

How do I use these systems?
Whatever your preference, using either SSNVS or TNEV couldn’t be easier. Here’s what to do:
1. SSNVS – After registering for BSO, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/employer to enter the necessary info.

2. TNEV – Call either of these two numbers:
• 800-772-1213 – SSA’s National 800 number. When prompted say, “Employer SSN Verification.”
• 800-772-6270 – SSA’s Employer Reporting Service Center. When prompted say or press “1″ to verify an SSN.

Who can use these systems?
Employers and third parties acting on behalf of an employer (e.g., payroll service providers, CPAs, etc.) can access both TNEV and SSNVS. However, the systems may only be used for wage reporting purposes, and after the employer/employee relationship is established.

Note: To verify SSNs for non-wage reporting purposes, you can use SSA’s Consent Based SSN Verification Service (CBSV) at www.socialsecurity.gov/cbsv.

To verify your personal SSN, you need proof of identity when visiting your local Social Security field office

Tags: social security, ssa, SSN, verification