Chapter 7. While the Polls Are Open, this link opens in a new browser tab.
7.E. Ballot Application, this link opens in a new browser tab.
7.E.4. If the Voter Is Asked for Their Social Security Number When Applying for A Ballot
When applying for a ballot, a voter may be asked to provide their Social Security number.
The voter may refuse.
A voter cannot be denied a ballot or challenged solely for refusing to provide a Social Security number or Social Security card.
The person requesting the Social Security number cannot be challenged for making the request.
What the Poll Watcher Is Looking For
Most voters do not know that they can be asked for their Social Security number.
Most voters also don't know that they can refuse to provide their Social Security number without consequences.
This is a matter of protecting the voter's identity. And a matter of timing.
Timing matters. The challenge should be made after the Social Security information is requested, but before the voter responds.
Example: "Challenge. Does the voter know that they may refuse to provide their Social Security number and still receive a ballot?"
This challenge is not directed at the person requesting the information. It ensures the voter has the information needed to make an informed decision.