Vet asking for social security number

bunny34422 · Mar 3, 2021

Hey guys, I made an appointment with a new vet for Timothy in late March, so my family and I have been looking at their new patient registration form. We don't remember giving a social security number or driver's license ID to any previous vets we've been to, so we're just wondering if this is a common thing for vets to ask for? Did you guys have to share yours as well? I did some googling and I see it may be for collection reasons in case someone fails to pay the bill, but my parents were still a little confused on why/if they really need that sort of information.

Thank you!

JBun · Mar 3, 2021

Just tell them you prefer not to give out that information and pay the bill before you leave their office. I've never given a vet my SS# or been asked for it. Nor would I feel comfortable providing it. Though a DL# I would feel more comfortable providing, as it just verifies your identity and address.

bunny34422 · Mar 3, 2021

Yep since we're a new client we've already made a deposit last week. I think we'll just leave the SSN part blank but provide the DL number. Thanks!

Nancy McClelland · Mar 3, 2021

Not legal to ask for it and you don't have to give it out.

Watermelons · Mar 3, 2021

I believe this is so they can send you to collections easier if you dont pay.

Quite honestly they have no right to this personal info and you shouldnt be giving out your DL number either. Far too easy to be taken for identity fraud.

overhear · Mar 4, 2021

It's smart of you not to comply with that. I think that lots of old forms still have a SS# field, even though it's no longer advisable to ask for it. Since it's very hard for most small businesses to secure their data well, it's best not to supply sensitive information unless you absolutely have to.