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What is a CPN Number?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

The Credit Privacy Number, or CPN, is a nine digit identification number that can be used to report financial information to credit bureaus. Available for use primarily in the United States, the number can be used instead of an individual’s Social Security number for many types of credit transactions. However, the CPN should not be viewed as an equitable substitute for the Social Security number in all situations.

Also known as a credit profile number, the CPN has its main advantage when it comes to tracking credit transactions and evaluating credit history. Rather than using a Social Security number for all credit transactions, using a credit privacy number makes it easier to segregate finances in the event of identity theft. Without access to a Social Security number, the thief is somewhat limited in the amount of difficulties that are created for the rightful owner of the number. This is because there are several types of financial transactions that cannot be conducted using this number.

CPNs can be used when applying for certain loans.
CPNs can be used when applying for certain loans.

Transactions that cannot be conducted using a CPN include information given to an employer, documents submitted to the Internal Revenue Service, and registering a car or truck. The number also cannot be used when applying for one of the several government sponsored home loan options, such as Sallie Mae or a FHA loan. However, a legal CPN can be used when applying for credit cards and obtaining financing that is not government related.

A CPN is important when it comes to evaluating credit history.
A CPN is important when it comes to evaluating credit history.

One of the urban myths surrounding the use of a CPN is that the credit file number can be used to avoid paying outstanding debt. In fact, the individual remains liable for all debts incurred on credit accounts referencing a Social Security number or a CPN. Obtaining this number will not result in establishing new credit to replace bad credit generated under a Social Security number.

One truth about CPN usage is that there are many citizens of the United States that routinely use this type of identification number. Celebrities often use one as a means of protecting their privacy when it comes to credit cards, loans, and other financial transactions. Members of Congress are also likely to use it in order to minimize the chances of private details about their finances being released to the general public without their authorization. People placed within a witness protection program are often issued a CPN, as it is much harder to track than a Social Security number.

Any citizen of the United States can request and obtain one of these numbers. However, it is only possible to receive one CPN. Certain resident aliens, spouses, or dependents can also apply for one if they have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The number remains constant from the date of issue and is connected with the owner of the number for the remainder of his or her life. As with a Social Security number, the owner is responsible for using the CPN with prudence. This means knowing what type of transactions require use of a Social Security number and which transactions may be conducted using a CPN.

In the event of a bankruptcy, any outstanding debts listed under an issued CPN number and the individual’s Social Security number must be declared in order to be included in the debt relief.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including SmartCapitalMind, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including SmartCapitalMind, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

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Discussion Comments

anon991864

How do you obtain a cpn number on your own?

ncp

If you don't know the process then you will mostly like have to pay. Knowing how to make tri-merge is the key along with tradelines. It is legal to do.

arneatrice

Has anyone found the answer on how to get a free cpn number?

anon957764

I was skeptical but have now had my tri-merged cpn since march. I have a 680 score with just one credit card. It cost me $25 and I'm satisfied completely!

anon954438

Does anyone have an answer on how to get or create a CPN for free?

jviv411

Does anyone know how to get a CPN number on their own? Who is the issuing agency?

anon928310

How can a CPN be linked with you for the rest of your life if you're using a different address in order not to have your file merged with your SSN file?

Red2013

CPN's are not scams. You just have to deal with the right people.

anon119339

CPN numbers are a scam. They are most likely stolen SS numbers from children. Do you want to get busted for identity theft?

anon88793

the game is to be sold not told. do your homework or pay someone who has done theirs.

pondview

$60 at one website and they do all the work. mine was issued in 24 hours and i also got tips on adding tradelines, which i have done. they were really expensive though but, my average credit score is 695

anon72062

So can a CPN be beneficial? Will it only be bad if you default on the new credit and at the same time have issues with your SSN Credit?

anon56973

How does one go about getting a cpn and where would I find the application to do so?

anon50915

how does one obtain their cpn?

RichieRich

Would you please tell me how I can go about getting my CPN directly without using a fee charging 3rd party?

anon25957

How does one obtain their CPN?

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    • CPNs can be used when applying for certain loans.
      By: Adam Gregor
      CPNs can be used when applying for certain loans.
    • A CPN is important when it comes to evaluating credit history.
      By: karam miri
      A CPN is important when it comes to evaluating credit history.