A US Social Security number (SSN) Trace identifies names and addresses associated with a candidate's SSN. This search is used solely as an investigative tool and should not be used as the basis for hiring or tenancy decisions. Certn uses the address history and any aliases or maiden names uncovered during this trace to help guide and enhance relevant criminal record searches, based on the screening package selected.

In this article

• Order the SSN Trace
  • When is it automatically included?
  • When can it be manually added?
• SSN Trace dependencies
• Next steps
   

Order the SSN Trace

The SSN Trace is part of a group of background screening services that work together to ensure more accurate and complete results. While it can’t be ordered on its own, it is automatically included or made available based on the other checks you select.

When is it automatically included?

The SSN Trace will be automatically added to your order when you select any of the following:

• US National Criminal Database Check (with alias)
• US County Criminal Court Record Check – 7 years of address
• US Federal Criminal Court Record Check – 7 years of address

When can it be manually added?

Although not a standalone service, the SSN Trace can be included when you order one or more of the following:

• US National Criminal Database Check (with alias)
• US Sex Offender Registry
• US County Criminal Court Record Check - current address
• US Federal Criminal Court Record Check - current address
• US Credit
• US Education Verification
• US Employment Verification

While it can support a range of checks, the SSN Trace is primarily designed to enhance US criminal history searches by identifying aliases tied to an applicant’s Social Security Number. This allows for broader, more accurate searches and helps reduce the risk of missing relevant records. Including the SSN Trace ensures your screening package is as thorough and compliant as possible.

SSN Trace dependencies

Why do some checks get cancelled if the SSN Trace has a discrepancy?

If the SSN Trace identifies a discrepancy, such as an invalid SSN format or unmatched identity details, any linked US criminal checks will be automatically cancelled. This protects against inaccurate or incomplete results and avoids unnecessary costs. You’ll have the option to review the issue and correct the applicant details if needed within your account. 

Next steps

After you place your order and Certn receives the required details from your applicant, the SSN Trace will begin processing.

You can track the case and view results in the client portal.

• Learn about US SSN Trace results
• Learn how to view and manage cases in the Manage your cases Certn Help article.
• For more on US criminal checks, see US background screening checks.