I know this can be done (at least in NH) because I was at a closing 8.5 years ago, where the Seller was refusing to release his. The in-house lawyer was then called upon and, when he came out, he and the Seller had a bit of a back-and-forth about it in front of everyone. The Seller then told the lawyer that he could prove it to him if he'd just come with him outside the room (presumably out to a telephone?). When they returned a few minutes later, the lawyer looked dumbfounded, and was shaking his head as he told us all that "He's right. He doesn't have to provide it."
If anyone could cite the law for me, it would be very much appreciated.
Thanks.
A better question would be to cite the law that REQUIRES the SSN to be divulged.
Simply ask the real estate agent to provide you with a copy of any state law requiring them to obtain your social security number for their records. If no such law exists, then you are not legally obligated to reveal it.
Cheers!
I would be surprised if you didn’t have to disclose it, the money will be income and surely someone is required to report it to the IRS, that form likely requires your SSN. I can’t see how to get around that. I will be interested in answers you get though. There might be a way to keep some people from getting it, say the buyer, but I would think someone needs it if money changes hands. Even in a Real Estate trade I am pretty sure it has to be reported.