(Thanks, T. :)

Reader T. writes:

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Ditching Social Security Numbers

The American States Assembly website seemingly assumes we have a Social Security Number. I know state nationals can, and federal citizens must, have a SSN. My questions on American state nationals are:

1. How do they void their SSNs and completely detach from any nexus with Social Security?
2. Can they retrieve mistaken withholdings from Social Security as they depart?
3. How do they open a bank account or credit card or get a loan, without SSN?
4. Is bank refusal to serve a customer without SSN illegal discrimination?

I recall that banks do not truly need a SSN. The only rule on banks is keeping a list of such customers. That's not to say clerks or branch managers know the law. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I recall reading the fact, and suspect banks use it for illegal immigrants. Banks just don't offer the option to Americans.

I know how revocation of election to pay income taxes works. Income taxes aren't social security withholdings. IRS revocation is not the issue here, except perhaps as preliminary requirement. Because if you pay "elective" income taxes, you need a SSN. Indeed some Americans may want to keep their SSNs for other reasons. Social Security can correct its records on their status. That's not the issue here, either.

I want to drop the SSN and exit Social Security records completely, yet still conduct lawful financial affairs. For simplicity, stipulate an American State National declared to the US, not a "dual" citizen of any kind, without any banking, credit cards, or job: just a SSN to remove.

I was a minor when I got a SSN as a mistaken US citizen. Juvenile status may have bearing on the issue. I understand nowadays hospital maternity wards assign SSNs to newborns.

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Hobie, ... thanks much !!! Appreciate all the Anna pieces you put up!

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