School & Education
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No. You don't have to disclose your Social Security number (SSN) when enrolling in public school.
It is illegal for public schools under federal law to require a student to give their SSN. It is also illegal for a school to prevent students who choose not to give their SSN or other documents from:
- Enrolling or attending the school, or
- Enjoying benefits or services provided by the school.
The school might need a number for identification purposes. Then the school should create a school number. It should have nothing to do with a person’s social security number.
Learn more about your child's rights when enrolling in public school.
If you believe that a school district is violating federal law, you may contact:
US Department of Justice
Civil Rights Division, Educational Opportunities Section
Telephone: (877) 292-3804 (toll-free)
Fax: (202) 514-8337
Email: [email protected]
US Department of Education
Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
Telephone: (800) 421-3481 (toll-free)
Email: [email protected]
Visit the US Department of Education website for more information and to access OCR's complaint form.
