Applicant doesn't want to provide social security number

[Jasmine H.]

I have two applicants (they are friends) who want to move in with a nanny for one of the applicant's child. They love the place and we like them and think it will be a good fit. The issue is they don't feel comfortable with providing their social security numbers and we don't feel comfortable accepting an applicant without one. We processed their application through Corelogic but the company hid the ssn. The tenanta said if we can agree on liability in case of identity theft they would be ok with providing their ssns.

Everything seemed to be moving along just fine until the ssn issue. With everything going on in this day and age with rules and regulations, I don't feel comfortable proceeding. Is a social security number necessary and can anyone provide liability language or direct me to a website that has this type of language?

[Wesley W.]

Tell them if they are uncomfortable giving you their SSN, imagine how uncomfortable it makes YOU feel handing over stewardship to a 6-figure asset to such a party.  This is part of life and the world they live in.  If they object, they can buy their own property (and wait for their lender to require same).

Frankly, in my opinion, this is a peek into the type of tenant they will be - challenging you at every turn.  I would pass on these folks.  A tiger doesn't change its stripes.  Not worth it.