Justification to use SSN

JUSTIFICATION TO USE SSNs

• Is personally identifiable information being collected?

Yes, there us personally identifiable information being collected.

• Is the SSN being collected?

_{Yes, the SSN is being collected as part of the Medicare Claim Number.}

• Is the information being collected electronically?

No, information is not being collected electronically.

• Is the information stored electronically?

_{No, information is not stored electronically.}

• Why do you need to use the SSN?

The SSN is required to assure individuals with similar names are accurately identified and properly processed. In addition, Form CMS-1763 can be used by an individual who has a Medicare Claim Number based on a family member or spouse, which would be different than the individual’s SSN. The SSN is used to identify spousal and Social Security Act Title II benefits relationship for eligibility for Medicare.

• What will happen if you cannot use the SSN as a data element?

If the Medicare Claim Number (SSN) is not used, the Federal Government will not be able to properly identify individuals, resulting in the denials of Part B and Premium Part A voluntary terminations.

• Explain alternative data elements considered and why you do not consider them suitable replacements for the SSN.

The Social Security Administration uses the SSN to determine Title II benefits for which Medicare entitlement is derived. Presently, there are no suitable replacements.

• What are the costs associated with alternatives?

N/A