SSN Reduction Plan Implementation

The Department of Defense (DoD) is taking action to protect DoD identification (ID) cardholders. The DoD recently launched the Social Security Number (SSN) Reduction Plan to help prevent identity theft by removing SSNs from DoD identification (ID) cards. The effort will occur in the following three phases:

• Phase One (in progress): Remove dependent SSNs; sponsor SSNs remain visible
• Phase Two (beginning by the end of calendar year 2009): Remove printed SSNs from all ID cards; Geneva Convention ID cards retain the last four digits of the SSN
• Phase Three (beginning during calendar year 2012): Remove SSNs embedded in ID barcodes

Although SSNs are being removed from DoD ID cards, you should continue to use the sponsor’s SSN (or former unremarried spouse’s SSN when applicable) for TRICARE claims submission and eligibility verification. Make sure the beneficiary provides the sponsor’s SSN for these actions. You can verify eligibility online by becoming a registered user at www.triwest.com/provider.

For more information on the SSN Reduction Plan, visit www.cac.mil.

Published Date: 09/16/2009