Can a payee write your social security number on your personal check?

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Can a payee write your social security number on your personal check?

I am currently paying off my wife’s student loan. After checking my statement, I see where my wife’s SSN has been written on the front of her check. I have asked for this to be

stopped multiple times and have accommodated their request of writing the last 4

of her SSN in the for line for identification. Is there an opportunity for legal action?

Asked on December 8, 2016 under Business Law, Tennessee

Answers:

SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 7 years ago | Contributor

It's not specifically illegal, so you can't force them to not do this. IF your wife suffers identity theft, etc. due to the fact that her social security number is on the check (you'd have to be able to provide some evidence linking the SSN on the check to the theft: e.g. was done by your babysitter or cleaning service (if you have one), who saw the check laying around, or by someone in the loan provider's mail room, etc.), you could sue for that loss,  but again, you can't affirmatively or proactively prevent this.


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