<P> The Social Security number is a nine - digit number in the format "AAA - GG - SSSS". The number is divided into three parts: the first three digits, known as the area number because they were formerly assigned by geographical region; the middle two digits, known as the group number; and the final four digits, known as the serial number . </P> <P> On June 25, 2011, the SSA changed the SSN assignment process to "SSN randomization". SSN randomization affected the SSN assignment process in the following ways: </P> <Ol> <Li> It eliminated the geographical significance of the first three digits of the SSN, referred to as the area number, by no longer allocating specific numbers by state for assignment to individuals . </Li> <Li> It eliminated the significance of the highest group number assigned for each area number, and, as a result, the High Group List is frozen in time and can be used for validation of only those SSNs issued prior to the randomization implementation date (see section "Valid SSNs"). </Li> <Li> Previously unassigned area numbers have been introduced for assignment, excluding area numbers 000, 666 and 900--99 . </Li> </Ol> <Li> It eliminated the geographical significance of the first three digits of the SSN, referred to as the area number, by no longer allocating specific numbers by state for assignment to individuals . </Li>

Meaning of first 3 digits of social security number
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