Open ProvincesSIN: 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.
Adapted from a guide first written for Quebec readers: passages specific to Quebec were removed. Rules in your province may differ.
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 Open Provinces Anti-Scam Centre
Official sources
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is a confidential identifier used for specific government and employment purposes. It is not general proof of identity. Do not carry or disclose it routinely, and never send it through an unverified email or message.
Apply or replace a document
- Use Service Canada's official application process and current document list.
- Provide original or accepted documents proving identity and legal status as requested.
- A lost confirmation document may be replaceable; this is different from changing the SIN itself.
- Store the SIN securely and share it only when legally required or for an authorized purpose.
If you suspect misuse
Contact Service Canada, notify relevant financial institutions and report identity theft to police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre as appropriate. Keep a record of dates and reference numbers. Be alert to calls demanding payment or threatening loss of benefits.
Start at Service Canada's SIN page; never pay a third party to obtain a SIN.
Sources and limits
Source: Service Canada. Open Provinces never asks you to enter your SIN into a tool or form. Source: Government of Canada — Social Insurance Number (https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/sin.html). Current application documents and procedures are listed by Service Canada.
General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting. Last reviewed : 2026-08-17.