WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 19, 2025) – A new report by the Center for Immigration Studies, Immigration and Social Security Numbers: A Primer, provides a detailed overview of how Social Security numbers (SSNs) have become central to determining who may work, receive benefits, and even vote.

“SSN fraud is a major driver of illegal employment and benefit abuse,” said Fishman, the Center’s senior legal fellow and author of the report. “The Trump administration has significant authority it can use on its own to make sure SSNs ensure the integrity of our immigration system.”

The report documents how weak verification, the suspension of SSA “no-match” letters, and DOJ-warned employer liabilities have enabled a thriving market in fake SSNs. Fishman also outlines steps federal agencies can take immediately without new legislation.

Key Findings

• SSNs now anchor eligibility for work, benefits, driver’s licenses, and voter registration.
• SSA stopped issuing “no-match” letters under President Biden, despite their usefulness in detecting illegal work using fraudulent SSNs.
• Employers remain confused due to conflicting guidance from SSA, DHS, and DOJ.
• Fraudulently used SSNs often generate earnings reports that – by law – must be shared with DHS but are rarely acted upon.
• DHS has strengthened the SAVE system to help states verify voter eligibility, including new 2025 upgrades that allow state election agencies to run bulk SSN-based queries and use the service at no cost.

Recommendations for the Trump Administration

• DHS: Restore the Bush-era “no-match” rule and investigate all reported earnings on non-work SSNs.
• SSA: Resume large-scale “no-match” letters to employers with clear instructions to comply with DHS safe-harbor procedures and then to fire the relevant employee.
• DOJ: Reissue guidance assuring employers they may follow those procedures without fear of discrimination liability.