Input Mask and Social Security #

[A.C.]

I've built a database that uses the SSN as the "Client
Number". I've used an input mask in a numeric field. It
works well but the problem that I have discovered is that
when the SS# starts with a zero - the zero does not show
so that 012-34-5678 shows up in all forms/reports as 12-34-
5678. It also impacts queries when I'm prompting for the
SS#.

Is there a way to correct this besides changing the field
to a text?

Thanks for your help.

A.C.

 

[Steve Schapel]

A.C.

Do you have an objection to a text data type? That's the way I would
do it. I mean, it's not really a number anyway, is it... You can't do
calculations with it.

Alternatively, you can use the Format property of the textboxes in
which this data will be displayed on your forms and reports, but you
would have to do it in all cases.

By the way, using SSN as a unique identifier is generally regarded as
unwise.

- Steve Schapel, Microsoft Access MVP

 

[John Nurick]

Hi A.C.,

A text field is the correct way to go. Numeric fields are intended for
numbers (things you may do arithmetic with); SSNs and the like are
simply strings of digits.

 

[AB]

YOUR INPUT MASK SHOULD LOOK LIKE THIS 000\-00\-0000;0;_

 

[John Vinson]

I've built a database that uses the SSN as the "Client
Number". I've used an input mask in a numeric field.

Use a Text field instead. You'll never do arithmatic with a SSN.