Covered California Certified Enroller Practice Exam

What is a valid reason for a household member not to possess an SSN?

1. They are a foreign applicant

2. Religious exemption

3. Personal choice

4. Age under 18

The correct answer is: Religious exemption

A valid reason for a household member not to possess a Social Security Number (SSN) includes being a foreign applicant. Individuals who are in the United States on a temporary basis, such as foreign students or tourists, are typically not eligible for an SSN because they do not meet the criteria established for permanent residency or citizenship. While personal choice and religious exemption might influence a person's decision regarding an SSN, they are not recognized as formal reasons within the context of enrollment and eligibility for programs like Covered California. Additionally, simply being under the age of 18 does not necessarily preclude someone from having an SSN, as many children do have one for various purposes. Therefore, the most valid reason from the options provided that aligns with official guidelines is related to the status of being a foreign applicant.