Fact Check: is obama's social security number from a different state than hawaii

Is Obama's Social Security Number from a Different State than Hawaii?

Introduction

The claim that former President Barack Obama's Social Security number (SSN) originates from a state other than Hawaii has circulated in various forms since his presidency. Proponents of this theory suggest that the first three digits of his SSN, which are 042, indicate it was issued in Connecticut, raising questions about his residency and eligibility. This article will explore the available evidence surrounding this claim without drawing a final conclusion.

What We Know

1. Social Security Number Structure: Social Security numbers are structured in three parts: the first three digits (the area number), the middle two digits (the group number), and the last four digits (the serial number). The area number is assigned based on the geographic location of the applicant at the time of application. For example, numbers beginning with 042 were issued in Connecticut between 1977 and 1979 17.

2. Obama's SSN: Barack Obama's SSN is reported to be 042-68-4425. This number was issued in March 1977, when Obama was 15 years old and living in Hawaii 145.

3. Birth Certificate Controversy: The claim about Obama's SSN is often linked to broader conspiracy theories regarding his citizenship and the authenticity of his birth certificate, which asserts he was born in Hawaii 23. These theories have been widely debunked by various credible sources.

4. Verification of SSN: Fact-checking organizations have investigated claims regarding Obama's SSN. For instance, a fact-check by the Florida Times-Union confirmed that Obama's SSN does not match that of a deceased individual, which was another claim made by conspiracy theorists 46.

5. Expert Analysis: Experts have noted that the first three digits of an SSN do not definitively indicate a person's state of residence at the time of issuance, as the numbers were assigned based on the location of the Social Security office processing the application 78.

Analysis

The claim that Obama's SSN is from a different state than Hawaii relies heavily on the interpretation of the first three digits of his SSN. While it is true that the digits 042 correspond to Connecticut, the context of how SSNs are issued complicates this assertion.

1. Source Reliability: The sources discussing Obama's SSN vary in reliability. For example, the Wikipedia entries on Obama's citizenship conspiracy theories 2 and presidential eligibility litigation 3 provide a broad overview of the claims and counterclaims but may lack depth in specific evidence. In contrast, fact-checking articles from established news organizations, such as the Florida Times-Union 4, offer more rigorous verification of the claims.

2. Potential Bias: Some sources, particularly those associated with the "birther" movement, may have inherent biases that influence their reporting. For instance, the Sonoran News 5 and articles from World Net Daily 8 are known for promoting conspiracy theories and may not adhere to strict journalistic standards.

3. Methodology Concerns: The methodology behind claims regarding the SSN often lacks transparency. For example, assertions that Obama's SSN was issued to a deceased individual are based on anecdotal evidence rather than comprehensive data analysis 6.

4. Need for Additional Information: To better understand the implications of Obama's SSN, more detailed information about the Social Security number assignment process and historical context would be beneficial. Additionally, insights from Social Security Administration records could clarify the issuance patterns during the 1970s.

Conclusion

Verdict: False

The claim that Barack Obama's Social Security number originates from a state other than Hawaii is false. Key evidence includes the fact that Obama's SSN, 042-68-4425, was issued in March 1977 when he was living in Hawaii, and the first three digits, while associated with Connecticut, do not definitively indicate his state of residence at the time of issuance. Furthermore, credible fact-checking organizations have debunked related conspiracy theories, confirming that his SSN does not match that of any deceased individual.

It is important to note that while the first three digits of an SSN can suggest a geographic origin, they do not provide conclusive proof of residency. The context surrounding the issuance of SSNs complicates the interpretation of these numbers. Additionally, the sources supporting the claim often exhibit bias and lack rigorous verification, which further undermines their credibility.

Despite the evidence presented, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations in the available information. The complexities of Social Security number assignments and the potential for misinformation mean that readers should approach such claims with caution.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider the reliability of sources when assessing claims related to sensitive topics such as identity and eligibility.

Sources

1. Why wasn't this vetted in 2008? - law.gov.narkive.com
2. Barack Obama citizenship conspiracy theories - Wikipedia
3. Barack Obama presidential eligibility litigation - Wikipedia
4. Fact Check: Obama's SSN not the same as dead man - Florida Times-Union
5. Still seeking an explanation for Obama's SSN 042-68-4425 - Sonoran News
6. Did Barack Obama Steal His Social Security Number? - Snopes
7. Hawaii slams door on 'birthers,' who turn to Obama Social Security number - Christian Science Monitor
8. Birthers' new fixation: Obama's Social Security number? - The Week
9. SSN Lookup By State and Year | SSN-Verify.com
10. Social Security Number Prefix List - SSOfficeLocator.org