QuestionThe insurance company handling my claim against a candy company whose product broke my tooth says they won't process my claim or release a check unless I give them my SS number. When I refused they insist this is a federal government requirement and cited a long code number - I am only claiming under #300 for dental repair only. Are they required by law to obtain my SS number for my claim?
Answer Hello Janice,
What you are describing appears to me to be a casualty settlement. While I am not a tax expert, in my experience such a settlement is NOT taxable, nor is it income. That being the case, I cannot imagine why the insurance company would have any right to your SSN. I am not aware that there is any "requirement" by law to obtain a SSN for a claim.
If you have the number they gave you, why don't you Google it and see what it comes back to.
I doubt it will support their position.
If it were me, I would resist their request and I would challenge them to provide in writing actual, official proof and documentation that there is any such requirement.
One final note, never, never assume that your adjuster is an expert.
Hopes this helps.
Jane Pytel
http://SolutionsForYourInsuranceClaim.com
