Why does HealthCare.gov need my Social Security number?

Asked by: Ernie Kling MD  |  Last update: November 29, 2023
Score: 4.3/5 (12 votes)

We use SSNs to check income and other information to see who's eligible for help with health coverage costs. If someone wants help getting an SSN, they can visit socialsecurity.gov, or call 1-800-772-1213.

Why do health insurance companies ask for Social Security numbers?

It's used to confirm that you're lawfully present in the United States and to confirm that the income you've projected approximately matches the information the marketplace gets from trusted sources, including the IRS, the Social Security Administration, and Equifax Workforce Solutions.

Is HealthCare.gov a legitimate site?

Our website, HealthCare.gov, is the official Marketplace website. Look for official government seals, logos, or web addresses (which end in “. gov”) on materials in print or online. Compare insurance plans carefully before making your decision.

Should I give my social security number to an insurance company?

There is no law prohibiting insurers from requesting a social security number. An insurer has the right to ask for a social security number where the information is reasonably related to underwriting. One such purpose is to obtain a credit report of an insured. 3.

Why did I get a letter from health insurance marketplace?

If you're asked to verify or add to information you entered on your Marketplace application, you'll get notices (letters, emails, or both) telling you which documents to submit. You may get a notice from your health insurance company too. See what to do if you can't find your notice.

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20 related questions found

Why did I get money back from Marketplace insurance?

Thanks to a provision in the Affordable Care Act, if your insurance company isn't spending at least 80 percent of your premium dollars on medical care, they have to send you some money back.

What is considered income for Obamacare subsidies?

Your total (or “gross”) income for the tax year, minus certain adjustments you're allowed to take. Adjustments include deductions for conventional IRA contributions, student loan interest, and more.

Should I give my Social Security number over the phone?

You should never provide your SSN to someone you don't know who calls you on the phone and requests it. This same warning applies to unsolicited emails and any forms you fill out on the Internet. In general, don't give your SSN to anyone unless you are absolutely certain they have a reason and a right to have it.

Can companies use your Social Security number?

There is no law that prevents businesses from asking for your SSN. And you may be denied service if you don't give the number. If giving your SSN to a business doesn't seem reasonable to you, ask if you can show another form of identification.

Has HealthCare.gov been hacked?

Hackers uploaded malware to a test server for the Obamacare insurance exchange website HealthCare.gov in July, federal officials confirm. The Department of Health and Human Services' Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, in a statement provided to Information Security Media Group on Sept.

Does HealthCare.gov text you?

The Marketplace also may use the phone number you provided to us (or was sent to us by your state) to call or SMS/text you about Marketplace coverage.

What is the most reliable health website?

The National Institutes of Health website is a good place to start for reliable health information. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website is another one. As a rule, health websites sponsored by federal government agencies are accurate sources of information.

Will healthcare gov ask for social security number?

Do I have to provide Social Security Numbers (SSNs) for people listed on my application? People who apply for health coverage need to provide an SSN if they have one.

Is asking for a social security number a Hipaa violation?

To constitute a violation of section 7, an agency must not only request that an individual disclose a social security number, but also deny a “right, benefit, or privilege” to that individual because of the individual's refusal to disclose the social security number.

Are doctors supposed to ask for your social security number?

The answer isn't particularly endearing: Your doctor's office wants your Social Security number so it can better track you down if you don't pay your bill. But no, you don't legally have to provide it unless you are a Medicare or Medicaid recipient. Nor should you, experts say.

Can you refuse to give your Social Security number?

Anyone can refuse to disclose his or her number, but the requester can refuse its services if you do not give it.

When should I give out my Social Security number?

Loan applications: You must provide your full social security number when applying for credit. This allows the lender to pull your credit from the credit bureaus to determine your credit worthiness. Employers: When accepting a job position, you must provide your employer with your social security number.

How do I lock down my Social Security number?

If you know your Social Security information has been compromised, you can request to Block Electronic Access. This is done by calling our National 800 number (Toll Free 1-800-772-1213 or at our TTY number at 1-800-325-0778).

How can I check to see if someone is using my Social Security number?

Contact the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) at 1-800-908-4490 or visit them online, if you believe someone is using your SSN to work, get your tax refund, or other abuses involving taxes. Order free credit reports annually from the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion).

Is it safe to give last 4 digits of SSN?

The last 4 digits of an SSN are important because if they're in the wrong hands, they might lead to identity theft and you might get in trouble due to someone else's actions. It's important to protect these digits and make sure they do not end up in the wrong hands.

Can someone do something with the last 4 digits of SSN?

As long as a hacker or scammer has access to other personal information such as your name and address, they can use the last four digits of your SSN (in most cases) to open accounts in your name, steal your money and government benefits, or even get healthcare and tax refunds in your name.

What is the minimum income for Obamacare in 2023?

In 2023, you'll typically be eligible for ACA subsidies if you earn between $13,590 and $54,360 as an individual, or between $27,750 and $111,000 for a family of four.

Will I get penalized if I underestimate my income for Obamacare?

You'll make additional payments on your taxes if you underestimated your income, but still fall within range. Fortunately, subsidy clawback limits apply in 2022 if you got extra subsidies. in 2021 However, your liability is capped between 100% and 400% of the FPL. This cap ranges from $650 to $2,700 based on income.

Does Obamacare look at income or assets?

Under the Affordable Care Act, eligibility for income-based Medicaid and subsidized health insurance through the Marketplaces is calculated using a household's Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI).

How do you know if you're being scammed on Marketplace?

Identifying Facebook Marketplace Scams
  • A buyer or seller with a brand new profile or without a Facebook profile photo.
  • A too-good-to-be-true price for a high-ticket item.
  • A buyer wanting to pay by gift card or send you a prepaid shipping label.
  • A buyer who “accidentally” overpays for an item or wants to pay quickly.