Before we go into detail about the Canadian Social Insurance Number, let’s give you a brief introduction of the same. Well, Canadian Social Insurance Number is used as a unique piece of identification. It is a confidential number pertaining a Canadian citizen’s personal information. It is a thing to be treated with utmost care. Now, here are a few things that you should know about the Social Insurance Number.

Though the Canadian SIN was initially created to administer federal programs, today it is needed for a variety of purposes, including various income and tax related purposes. To be precise, the federal government in Canada uses the number to carry out certain government programs. Originally, it was used for programs like Pension Plan and unemployment insurance programs.

You will need the SIN in order to work in Canada, so that you could file taxes, as well as receive various Canadian governments’ benefits. However, not all government departments in Canada are authorized to collect your SIN. Banks can also use the number for income related purposes. Below are a few usage of the SIN:

• The SIN comes into play when it comes to insurable/pensionable job or employment. You are required to show your Social Insurance Card within 3 days from the date of joining a job.
• The SIN is used to file your income taxes. You may be asked to provide the number by federal, provincial, as well as municipal government agencies, whichever is applicable or which makes income tax information for you!
• You may be required to provide the SIN to banks and other financial unions.
• Any other authorized federal government agencies in Canada may ask you for your SIN.

Be always careful in providing your SIN to any agency or department. Whenever you are asked for the same, always make sure if it is required indeed by law. Never forget to ask the agency for what purpose they need your SIN. If you find that any other piece of identification would work for the purpose, then avoid providing your Social Insurance Number. Once you are provided with a SIN, it is your duty to take care of it. Be always watchful when using it!