How to Obtain the Social Security Numbers of Debtors

Social security numbers are 9-digit identification numbers issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents and temporary workers. They are used by creditors for two main reasons: to report a consumer's history to a credit bureau, and to find assets after a judgment is awarded. Many debtors might keep their social security number a closely guarded secret, but with a few tricks of the trade you can obtain the information you need.

Instructions

1

Call the debtor and ask them to verify some information. Ask the debtor for their name, date of birth, address and social security number. If you make the request seem innocent, many debtors will be fooled into turning over the information.

2

Send the debtor a letter asking them to verify their name, date of birth, address and social security number. Include a prepaid return enveloped to make it as easy as possible for the debtor to provide you with the information.

3

Go to the PACER website and pull public records for the consumer. Apply for an account, then use the tool to search for public records for the debtor's address(es). Many public records contain the debtor's social security number (including bankruptcies and judgments). Searching through the public records will often reveal social security numbers.