Guide

SIN in Quebec: apply, find your number and protect it after a breach

How to apply for or confirm a Social Insurance Number, know when it should be provided, and react if it was lost, stolen or exposed.

Canada no longer issues new plastic SIN cards. Service Canada provides a confirmation of SIN and, in eligible situations, lets you view or print it through My Service Canada Account.

Applying for a SIN

A SIN is required to work in Canada and for certain government programs. Apply through Service Canada using the identity and status documents required for your situation.

Forgotten or lost SIN

Losing an old card or letter does not by itself mean you need a new SIN. If you cannot find the number, Service Canada provides a confirmation process.

When should you provide it?

A SIN is confidential and should not be used as general identification. Ask why it is required, whether the organization is legally entitled to collect it, and how it will be protected.

If your SIN is compromised

Keep evidence of the exposure or fraud.
Contact Service Canada and any affected financial or tax organizations.
Monitor your tax accounts and credit files.
Report actual fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and police when appropriate.

A new SIN is not automatically issued solely because the number was exposed.

Open the Atlas Anti-Scam Centre

Official sources

Version française →

Source: Service Canada. Atlas never asks you to enter your SIN into a tool or form.

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