Request for Dependent Social Security Numbers

Federal Law requires health insurance carriers and self-funded employers to report health insurance coverage to the IRS using members' (including dependents) Social Security numbers (SSNs). For many years, health insurance carriers did not always require dependent SSNs to enroll in coverage. However with the new reporting standards, health insurance carriers will be making requests via mail for dependent SSNs. Covered members have a strong incentive to provide their SSN at the time of request so they can demonstrate to the IRS that they have health insurance when they prepare their tax returns. If the IRS cannot verify health insurance coverage for an individual they maybe opening themselves up to penalties.