Division Policy 2.12

SUBJECT

Social Security Numbers

EFFECTIVE DATE

July 9, 2003

REVISION DATE

April 28, 2025

EXPIRATION DATE

N/A

PURPOSE AND BACKGROUND

The Division of Blind Services (DBS) may sponsor services under the vocational rehabilitation program to meet the vocational needs of an individual with a disability and assist the individual in preparing for, securing, maintaining, advancing in or regaining an employment outcome consistent with the individual’s unique Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) when such goals meet the requirements of 34 CFR 361.5(c)(15).

This policy outlines the requirements for providing Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and verifying legal presence and work eligibility for individuals seeking employment under the vocational rehabilitation (VR) services through the DBS. This ensures compliance with federal and state laws governing public benefits and VR programs.

AUTHORITY

• Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. §701 et seq.)
• Code of Federal Regulations (34 CFR §361.42) – Eligibility requirements for vocational rehabilitation services.
• Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 (IRCA) – Ensuring eligibility for work within the United States.
• Relevant Florida statutes on public benefits and identity verification. 

Policy

A. Social Security Number Requirement:

DBS requires all applicants for vocational rehabilitation services to provide a valid Social Security Number (SSN). Applicants must provide a valid SSN for the purposes of:

• Verifying identity and eligibility for vocational rehabilitation services.
• Verifying legal presence in the United States and eligibility to work.
• Coordinating with other state and federal programs, such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and Medicaid.
• Ensuring accurate record-keeping and reporting.

Exceptions:

If an applicant does not have an SSN due to a pending application for legal status or an exemption, DBS will review alternative forms of identification, such as:

• Employment Authorization Documents (EAD)
• Immigration documentation (e.g., Form I-94)
• Affidavits of identity, as permitted under federal guidelines.

Applicants unable to provide proof of legal presence or work eligibility within 90 days of application will not be eligible for DBS VR services until such documentation is provided.

B. Legal Presence and Work Eligibility Requirement:

• All applicants must demonstrate they are legally present in the United States and eligible to work by providing acceptable documentation, such as the items listed in the Employment Eligibility Verification US CIS Form I-9. including but not limited to:
  • U.S. Passport or U.S. Birth Certificate
  • Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
  • Valid Employment Authorization Card (for non-citizens authorized to work)
  • Social Security Card along with government-issued photo ID.

Applicants unable to provide proof of legal presence or work eligibility will not be eligible for DBS VR services until such documentation is provided.

C. Confidentiality and Data Protection:

DBS will safeguard all personal information, including SSNs, in accordance with federal and state confidentiality regulations. SSNs and other personal data will only be used for legitimate program purposes and will not be shared beyond what is necessary to determine eligibility and provide services.

D. Implementation:

This policy applies to all applicants for DBS services and must be adhered to by all DBS staff responsible for eligibility determinations.

Original signed by Robert L. Doyle, III, Director on 12-16-2025.