Social Security Number (SSN)

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit identification number issued by the U.S. Social Security Administration. It’s primarily used to track an individual’s earnings and benefits, but it also functions as a personal tax identifier.

For home improvement contractors, an SSN is often used when applying for certain licenses, opening business bank accounts, filing taxes, or forming a business—especially for sole proprietors who don’t yet have an Employer Identification Number (EIN). An SSN identifies you personally, while an EIN identifies your business.