Auto Insurance Claims: Social Security Number, social security and insurance claim

Question
I was involved in a third party rear end wreck. while on the phone at the accident,his insurance company demanded my social security number so that I could "Get Paid."

I asked the insurance adjuster why they asked for my social security number and they answered,"To determine if you're an illegal immigrant", which I'm not.

Can his insurance company do this.

I live in South Carolina.  

Answer
Any insurance company can demand your social security number if you are making an injury claim or any claim involving lost wages.  The reason is for fraud prevention.  The adjuster that indicated they are checking to see if you are an illegal immigrant is definitely a greenhorn adjuster and ignorant of how insurance claims work.  Even if you were an illegal immigrant it wouldn't have any bearing on your claim.  Are they saying they would not pay you if you were an illegal immigrant?  I don't think so.  So they can ask for it, and you have to give it, or advise that you don't have one, if you are making an injury claim or a wage claim.

I hope this helps.