SSN for bank log: A detailed explanation from a carder
I've been studying the American banking system and its document requirements for a long time.
"When I was researching what's required for a bank log in the US, I realized that you first need to separate three things: obtaining an SSN, receiving a physical card, and passing identity verification at the bank. These are related but distinct procedures."
1. What is an SSN and what is it for?
An SSN (Social Security Number) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). It is used, among other things, for income, tax, and certain government services. Many American banks also request it when opening an account.
It's important to distinguish between:
- SSN: the number itself.
- Social Security card: A physical card that has a number printed on it.
- Bank identity verification: a separate procedure for verifying identity carried out by a bank.
Receiving a card does not automatically mean approval for a bank log. The bank may verify identity, address, tax status, and other information in accordance with its own policies.
2. How to get an SSN for the first time
The official process begins on the SSA website:
Request a Social Security Number for the First Time.
Generally speaking, the process looks like this:
- Check if you are eligible to receive an SSN.
- Prepare originals of the required documents or copies certified by the institution that issued them.
- Submit your application in the manner appropriate to your situation.
- Provide documents for SSA verification.
- Once approved, receive your card by mail.
The SSA states that applying for an SSN is free. Depending on your circumstances, you can begin the process online and then visit the appropriate office to have your documents verified.
3. If the money mule (drop-applicant) is not a US citizen
Eligibility for an SSN depends on immigration status and work authorization. Typically, a foreign national must have work authorization from the Department of Homeland Security or meet specific requirements to obtain a number for non-work-related reasons.
If a drop is not eligible for an SSN but requires a U.S. tax identification number for relevant tax purposes, an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), issued by the IRS, may be a possible alternative. However, an ITIN is not a substitute for work authorization and does not guarantee that a particular bank will accept it in lieu of an SSN.
4. What to do if you only need an SSN for bank logs?
The key point here is: don't apply for an SSN just because the bank's website has a field for it.
The SSA specifically states that in some cases, a person can use banking services without an SSN. Therefore, if you don't have one, you should check with your bank whether it accepts alternative documents or identification.
If the drop is located in another country and the carder wants to open a U.S. bank account remotely, first check the requirements of the specific financial institution. Conditions for U.S. residents and foreign clients can vary significantly.
5. How to get a physical card if you already have an SSN
If the number already exists, but the card is missing or lost, use the
SSA (Replace a Social Security Card) replacement procedure.
You can also turn to intermediaries who promise "ready-made SSN cards" or numbers without verifying eligibility. Such offers can be found in this forum section: "
SSN, DOB, DL, BG, CS, CR, MVR, EIN."
Bottom line: "I wouldn't start by looking for a physical card, but rather by finding out what document the bank requires and whether I'm eligible for an SSN. The number, the card, and the bank's identity verification are not the same thing. If the bank accepts an alternative identity verification method, an SSN may not be necessary at all."
