PLEASE, New Jersey! Take This Social Security Card Warning Seriously

You may be carrying something around in your wallet you think you need, when in reality, it's one of the worst things you can do.

I'm guilty of this, too, or at least I WAS. I was notorious for carrying around all of my identification documents. Driver's license, of course, but also my passport, birth certificate, and Social Security card. Why? I don't know. It just made me feel better and I just always thought, 'Ya never know.'

But the Federal Government has put me in my place, at least about my Social Security card.

The Warning

DO NOT keep your Social Security card in your wallet.

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Should you lose your wallet, or have it stolen, ssa.gov warns that's the one credential thieves can use to steal your identity. It's like giving scammers the keys to your castle. Identity thieves can use your SSN to open up new credit cards and even apply for loans in your name!

If your Social Security card is lost or stolen, you can apply to receive a replacement, but the process may take a while.

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Guard Your Card

Keep your Social Security card in a safe place at all times but, AGAIN, NOT your wallet. Also, Social Security Matters recommends being very careful about WHO you give your Social Security number to and always ask why it's being requested.

You should also try to avoid carrying around any documents that list your SSN.

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