Agent asking for NI number

[bluetoaster]

Hi, long time lurker but barely posted as I generally find what I need through the search option. By the way I have found a huge amount of information here.

I've just been asked by an agent for my NI number and told they need it to put me forward for a role as the client wants it. I see no feasible reason for them needing it and politely refused, but wondered if anyone else had come across this.

[Wanderer]

I've just been asked by an agent for my NI number and told they need it to put me forward for a role as the client wants it. I see no feasible reason for them needing it and politely refused, but wondered if anyone else had come across this.

Probably part of their identity checks. I would just give it to them....

[kingcook]

I've been asked for this recently, but just ignored the request.

I'm wondering how someone can use someone's NI number to confirm identity? The only reason I see to request it is if it's needed to fill in some form for HMRC.

[bluetoaster]

I'm wondering how someone can use someone's NI number to confirm identity? The only reason I see to request it is if it's needed to fill in some form for HMRC.

Same here.

The agent said the client used it to identify duplicate applications so I suggested they use name and address. I don't see that though.

[mos]

Same here.

The agent said the client used it to identify duplicate applications so I suggested they use name and address. I don't see that though.

Some agencies build candidate profiles - and NI is on it. A few years back the agency was chasing that up long after I categorically refused their offer. Apparently they needed that to complete my profile for future references.

Given the outsourcing trend I would be careful who get hands on my personal info.

[kingcook]

Same here.

The agent said the client used it to identify duplicate applications so I suggested they use name and address. I don't see that though.

There's no way (or at least I don't know of a way) to validate an NI number against a name/address. So if someone were to be putting in duplicate applications (Why TF would they anyway), they could just give any old crap.

I'd decline giving reasons above. If agent unwilling to budge just give a crap number.

[northernladuk]

I'd decline giving reasons above. If agent unwilling to budge just give a crap number.

What is the point of doing that? All you are going to get is more pestering if they do need it and it is wrong.

[northernladuk]

The threads below mention a couple of reasons they might need it.

http://forums.contractoruk.com/gener...-number-2.html

http://forums.contractoruk.com/busin...want-info.html

http://forums.contractoruk.com/busin...request-2.html

http://forums.contractoruk.com/busin...175-my-ni.html

Varying reasons such as ID checking you are not an illegal, client requires it as part of process, compliance reasons etc.

[bluetoaster]

Thanks for that. I have more to learn about the search option.

[mos]

Thanks for that. I have more to learn about the search option.

no problem