I have a question regarding social security numbers - employer sends a time sheet around with all names on it and social security numbers of each person listed next to the name. This is not only an identity theft concern; however, I am trying to find in the Privacy Law where this is not permitted - PLEASE HELP.

I don't think you will find a cite for this, but check your state law anyway. I think it's a stupid practice, but stupidity as a rule isn't illegal.

My doctor (a rather large practice) was doing something similar......having patients write social security number next to their name when they signed in. I pointed out the concern with identity theft and next time I was in the office I found that that is no longer their practice.

You might try and point out the identity theft issue.

I WISH stupidity was illegal..or atleast painful...we'd have more prisons, and less bars though

And I have a problem with the fact that BlueCross Blue Shield in my neck of the woods is still using social security numbers as subscriber numbers, and emblazoning them across the face of my membership card.

Amen to that John - just goes to show that just because you're the biggest, doesn't necessarily make you the smartest!!

There are several new state laws that go into effect over the next year prohibiting the subscriber number to be the SSN, so hopefully none of us will have to worry about it too much longer.

Last month, Blue Cross issued a new card to me; the number is no longer my social security #. I don't know if they are making this change to those in other states. The letter that came with the new card did reference their compliance with a recently enacted state privacy law in Texas.

I also just received my card from BlueCross - no more SSN either.

Received my BCBS card in July. It has the number on it.

I just talked to our Benefits Administrator, and BCBS will reissue without the SSN's based on your renewal date - and since our is this month, and the law doesn't go into effect until 2004 - we won't get cards without our SSN's until Dec next year. (WHEE!)