Melissa asked on our blog:
“I have a serious question that’s been bothering me when I fill out certain apps. online. Why is it that some companies ask for your social security number before hiring and/or getting an interview; now to my knowledge I've read somewhere if a company ask for your SSN then it’s a SCAM, so can someone please enlighten me if this statement is accurate or not?”
Hi Melissa - Great question. Some companies will ask for your Social Security number to make sure you meet the minimum age requirement for the position. An example of this would be: Must be 18 or older to apply.
You should use your best judgement when applying for a job that asks you for this information. If it is for a smaller company that you have never heard of, do a quick Internet search to make sure the business is legit before providing this type of information. Try calling the company and explain that you are applying to a job with them, and would like to know how they are going to use your Social Security number.
If you are unsure about a posting on our site, send us the employer's information and a link to the posting you are interested in to besafe@snagajob.com and we'll investigate. We do our very best to keep scammers off the site, but if one got though we want to know so we can fix it.
Please note that if an employer asks you to send them any money, chances are it is a scam. If an employer you’ve never heard of, or never worked for, sends you a check, rip it up and cut off communication with them.
Get more tips for a safe job search in our Security Center.
About Kim Costa
Can you help me find a felony friendly employers?
Hi Timmy! We actually have a good amount of articles that I think can help you: http://www.snagajob.com/resources/?s=felon. Check them out and let me know what you think!
I am interested in how to apply for a job in snagajob.com and where you are located.
Sincerely,
karen bednarz
Hi Karen! We are located in Richmond, Virgina. You can check out our open positions here: https://careers-snagajob.icims.com/jobs/search?ss=1&searchLocation=&searchCategory=&hashed=0.
How deeply actually DO employers go during a background check? I have spoken to people who have cleared up credit problems and it doesn’t show on their report for months. Others may have a misdemeanor on there record and avoid applying for jobs in the fear that they will automatically be weeded out as a potential candidate. I find it hard to fathom that employers spend the time and expense to screen every applicant so closely with the amount of people unemployed these days. Can you clear this up. Isn’t this somewhat an invasion of privacy even though it is a matter of public record? There is a lot of personal information on these reports. Thanks.
Hi Donna! That’s a great question. It really depends on the type of job and how deep the employer wants to go. Some may simply check with your former supervisors to verify employment status, others may look into your criminal background. Credit checks are usually saved for positions where the job requires working in the finance department or handling money. There can be a lot of information on background checks, and it’s a little weird to think you’re being looked in to. But, it’s a good way for employers to ensure applicants are being honest on their applications. Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
They also use it for a background and credit check. If you DO get hired, such info is necessary for things such as funds for payments.
In reference to credit checks etc., I had my identity stolen, and it took me months to straighten it out with my bank, etc. As a result of not having any money in the bank for 2 months, all my credit card companies raised my interest rates to the max., My landlord raised my rent, and so on, etc.
Then when things got really bad, I had no choice but to declare chapter 7 bancruptcy.
That was 2 years ago. How will this affect any employer who wants to hire me. Because of a change in ownership of a restaurant chain, I and most managers were laid off. Yes, I handled money for over 20 years without a problem..
so I know they will do a credit check. Do I even have a chance at getting hired.
Hi Joe! I am sorry to hear about your situation. Can you use your former supervisor at the restaurant as a reference?