recruiter ask for SSN

I am apply for a position via a recruiter.But the employer asks for SSN as for the reason that recruiter told me:
"Per our discussion 1/16/09, the Social Security number is required by XXX compnay to accompany all contract assignment candidate submittals as they use it to verify that you are not a retired employee trying to return to work with them (which would violate the terms of their Early Retirement Package). However, rest assured we take our responsibility to maintain your privacy very seriously and that all information you provide will be treated with the utmost sensitivity."
the recruiter also send me the letter from the employer that asks for SSN.
Is that reasonable? do I need to send them my SSN#? I need a job urgently.
thanks,

所有跟帖： 

• 只好给了。 -sigma- ♂ (44 bytes) () 01/20/2009 postreply 10:13:36

• 回复：recruiter ask for SSN -Salary- ♂ (6128 bytes) () 01/20/2009 postreply 10:23:28

• I will think twice! I've never ever been asked for it. -any_mor_left- ♂ (24 bytes) () 01/20/2009 postreply 11:12:38

• 如果他们准备雇你了， 做reference check，就给， -安心草- ♀ (16 bytes) () 01/20/2009 postreply 11:43:50