Social security numbers will indeed be a problem at some point, though the form of the problem is as yet uncertain.

If they become 10 (or 11, or 12) digits, there will be a big data migration problem. A lot of apps will have to be recompiled.

But, if social security numbers start being recyled, the mess will become much, much bigger. SSNs could no longer be used as unique identifiers (a risky proposition anyway), but would require data range logic, to answer questions like "who held this SSN on this date?".

I'm leaving the problem alone until the Social Security Adminstration provides guidance.

See How Social Security Numbers Work for some background.

In reply to Re: SSN's possible new Y2K problem? by dws
in thread SSN's possible new Y2K problem? by Anonymous Monk

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