Accounts Reported without Social Security Number

Dear KOK,

Yes, they can. Experian doesn't match information to a person's credit history using only the Social Security number. Experian matches information using all of the identification information provided by the lender, so the account will be accurately shown in your report, even if no Social Security number is provided.

In some cases, variations from the consumer's correct Social Security number may be reported to Experian. Experian lists every variation reported to it. Any variations listed under "Social Security number variations" in your credit report are not errors. Instead, they are an accurate representation of all of the numbers being reported to Experian as belonging to you.

It is important to list the variations because they could indicate you are a victim of fraud or identity theft. In most cases they are simply the result of a transposed digit or typographical error. Some people may provide an incorrect Social Security number in the misbelief that doing so helps protect them from fraud. However, in some cases they are the result of identity theft. By listing the variations, we enable you to recognize fraud and take immediate action.

Thanks for asking.
The "Ask Experian" team