Maine Residents Warned to Remove This From Their Wallets

Residents of the Pine Tree State carry a lot in their wallets, but the federal government is warning against carrying one specific item.

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It's no surprise that we need to carry many things in our wallets or purses. From credit cards and IDs to cash and loyalty cards, you never know when you'll need something specific, whether for shopping, identification, or an emergency.

It's always better to be prepared than to leave the house and find yourself in a tough spot.

Of course, we don't want folks being put in 'tough spots.' There's a saying about being up a certain creek without a paddle, and if you leave an essential at home while you're out and you need it, that's a problem.

However, the federal government is warning that not everything should be carried with you at all times.

The Social Security Administration says in a statement laying out the importance of protecting your identity:

We encourage you not to carry your Social Security card with you every day. The best way to ‘Guard Your Card’ is to keep it in a safe place and share it only when required, which is rare. In fact, in most cases, just knowing the Social Security number should be enough. In 49 states and the District of Columbia, a Social Security card isn’t required to request a Real ID. Only Pennsylvania requires it.

Additionally, they encourage folks to be extra cautious when sharing their Social Security number.

Always ask why it’s needed, how it will be used, and what happens if you refuse. That’s the advice from the Social Security Administration. Further, avoid carrying documents that display your number.