What is the purpose of the Social Security Number (SSN)?

The purpose of the Social Security Number (SSN) is primarily to identify individuals for Social Security purposes. Originally introduced as a method to track earnings and determine eligibility for benefits under the Social Security program, the SSN has become essential for various functions within the United States government and other institutions. It serves as a unique identifier for each person, facilitating the management of Social Security records and ensuring that individuals receive the appropriate benefits based on their earnings history.

While tracking earnings and pensions is closely related to the primary purpose of the SSN, the specific focus on identifying individuals for Social Security reasons highlights its role in the administration and distribution of these benefits. The assignment of an SSN allows the Social Security Administration to keep accurate records of contributions and to calculate future benefits appropriately.

The other options reflect concepts that are unrelated to or outside the scope of the SSN's primary purpose. For instance, granting citizenship to immigrants or providing health insurance information does not pertain to the role of the SSN within the Social Security framework. The SSN is fundamentally a tool for identification and tracking within the realm of Social Security and related federal programs.