The IRS suggests that small-business owners verify employee names and Social Security numbers. Using the institution's online verification is beneficial for several reasons:

  • Correct names and Social Security numbers on W-2 wage reports are key to the successful processing of your annual wage report submission.
  • It's faster and easier to use than submitting your requests as paper listings or using Social Security's telephone verification option.
  • It results in more accurate wage reports.
  • It saves you processing costs and reduces the number of W-2cs.
  • It allows Social Security to properly credit your employees' earnings records, which will be important information in determining their Social Security benefits in the future.

    • You can verify up to 10 names and numbers (per screen) online and receive immediate results. This option is ideal for verifying new hires. Although the service is available to all employers and third-party submitters, it can only be used to verify current or former employees, and only for wage reporting (Form W-2) purposes.

    You must register to use the Social Security Number Verification Service (SSNVS) by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/bso/bsowelcome.htm. Third-party preparers need only register once in their own company's name. During registration, you will select a password and receive a PIN number. You will also be asked to provide the following information: type of employer/employee, company name and EIN, phone number, your name, date of birth, mailing address, work phone, and e-mail address.