Working Papers & Social Security Numbers
Effective January 1, 2010, the use of Social Security numbers by state agencies and governmental entities is restricted to prevent identity theft. The guidelines for this law are at: http://www.p12.nysed.gov/sss/lawsregs/POL96-a.html
In addition, according to the Employment Certificating Officers’ Manual under the section entitled Requirements for Applicants: “It is not mandatory for minors to have a social security number; however, the form requests a social security number in order to encourage young people to obtain one.” Therefore, requiring a social security number from a minor applying for working papers was a school option. It has always been an employer’s responsibility to obtain the social security number from each employee for payroll purposes.
Based on the information provided above, the line on the application for employment certificate/permit forms (AT-17 and AT-22) requesting a minor’s Social Security number has been deleted. If you have further questions please feel free to contact the Office of Student Support Services at 518-486-6090.
In addition, according to the Employment Certificating Officers’ Manual under the section entitled Requirements for Applicants: “It is not mandatory for minors to have a social security number; however, the form requests a social security number in order to encourage young people to obtain one.” Therefore, requiring a social security number from a minor applying for working papers was a school option. It has always been an employer’s responsibility to obtain the social security number from each employee for payroll purposes.
Based on the information provided above, the line on the application for employment certificate/permit forms (AT-17 and AT-22) requesting a minor’s Social Security number has been deleted. If you have further questions please feel free to contact the Office of Student Support Services at 518-486-6090.