Your Social Security and Medicare numbers are valuable—know when not to share them.
Two of the most important documents you own are your Social Security and Medicare cards. Both card numbers represent money, credit, and peace of mind. You know that scammers try to steal these numbers, but often, well-meaning people jeopardize your cards’ security.
There are several ways to protect yourself. And it starts with not giving your numbers out to just anyone, even if it seems innocuous. Here are places you should never share your Social Security or Medicare numbers.
Keep Your Cards in a Safe Place
Start by keeping your cards safe. Never keep your Social Security card in your wallet. It should never leave your house. Keep it in a safe place where even family and friends won’t find it. Make it a point to memorize the number to use if you absolutely need to.
The same goes for your Medicare card. Many seniors carry their card around in their wallet in case they need it. But unless you’re visiting a health professional or healthcare facility, you don’t need to keep your card with you.
Identity Theft Due to Stolen Social Security Numbers
According to the Social Security Administration, identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in America. The routine and typically indiscriminate use of Social Security numbers (SSNs) as identifiers creates opportunities for thieves to obtain your personal information.
Many organizations’ requests for and use of SSNs increase identity theft and fraud. These organizations use SSNs as identifiers in their record-keeping systems even when alternative identifiers should be used.
Resist Giving Up Your Social Security Number
You should be very cautious as to who you give your SSN to. The more you can limit the number of places that have your SSN, the less exposure you have for identity theft. You’ll be limiting the number of places where your SSN is stored and potentially compromised.
Who Should Not Receive Your Social Security Number?
You are the only “gatekeeper” of your personal information. It all starts with you. That’s why it’s vital you don’t give it to anyone who doesn’t absolutely need it. Here are some organizations or people who don’t need your SSN.
Anyone Calling or Sending You an Email
If someone calls claiming to be from the government or a company and asks for your SSN, don’t give it to them. This is how scammers operate. If they claim to be from the federal, state, or local government, refuse to give them your SSN. No government official is going to call you for that information. Besides, the federal government already knows your SSN.
If a company calls you, it’s wise to end the call, and if you’re interested or it’s your credit card company, call them back on a different number. You’ll probably discover they didn’t initiate the call. The best practice is to never give your SSN over the phone.
Don’t respond to emails that request your SSN. And never send your SSN via email. You don’t know who will be looking at it or if it will be forwarded.
Public Schools, Little League, Summer Camp, and the Like
Your utility bill confirms your address. The school has your email address, address, and phone number in case of an emergency. They don’t need your SSN. And they probably don’t have a secure way to keep it.
For the same reason, a summer camp or Little League doesn’t need your SSN. If you need to pay, a simple credit card, check, or cash should suffice.
They may need a birth certificate, but don’t give them the original, and never give them your child’s SSN.
Supermarkets
A frequent shopper card is not a bank account or loan. It merely tracks your purchases, primarily for marketing purposes. Even though it may be on the application, refuse to give it to them.
Anybody Who Approaches You
If someone approaches you on the street claiming to be from the cell phone company or a salesman, don’t give them your SSN. This also applies to anyone running a voter registration campaign.
If you want to vote, go to the county board of elections.
Other Places Not to Give Your Social Security Number
There are other places and organizations that you should not give your SSN to. A dentist, for example, doesn’t need your SSN unless you are financing a procedure. They just need your insurance information.
Medical businesses, such as those that supply durable medical equipment, dialysis supplies, or pharmaceutical companies, should not have your SSN.
Don’t give your SSN to nonprofit organizations or technology companies.
Who Should Not Receive Your Medicare Number?
Treat your Medicare card as you would your Social Security or a credit card. Never leave it out in the open. According to United Healthcare, you should never give your card or number to anyone except your doctor or another authorized Medicare provider.
Beware of Bogus Medicare Plans
Criminals may try to entice you with phone Medicare plans, products, benefits, or services. Check with the plan provider to see if it’s legitimate. Or, better yet, use the Plan Finder at Medicare.gov to verify a plan you’re considering.
Don’t Fall for ‘Free’ Healthcare Services or Products
Close the door on the conversation if someone asks you for your Medicare information in exchange for free medical services or products. Remember, if it’s free, they don’t need insurance information.
Avoid Door-to-Door Salespeople
Medicare doesn’t send representatives to people’s homes to sell products or services. Don’t accept medical supplies or give information to door-to-door salespeople. And remember, insurance agents may not come to your home unless you ask them.
The Epoch Times copyright © 2026. The views and opinions expressed are those of the authors. They are meant for general informational purposes only and should not be construed or interpreted as a recommendation or solicitation. The Epoch Times does not provide investment, tax, legal, financial planning, estate planning, or any other personal finance advice. The Epoch Times holds no liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided.
By Anne Johnson
