Program History

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History

The Social Insurance Number (SIN) Program was introduced by Parliament in 1964 to register people with the Unemployment Insurance Commission (now known as Employment Insurance) and the Canada Pension Plan. In 1967, the SIN also became a file identifier for Revenue Canada (now known as Canada Revenue Agency ).

Since 1976, the Proof-of-Identity Program requires SIN applicants to present documentation to prove their identity and legal status in Canada. This is required for a first-time SIN request, as well as for a SIN card replacement and an amendment to a SIN card or record.

Since 1985, a ten-dollar fee is charged for SIN card replacements.

In June 1999, a service allowing many New Brunswick residents to apply for a SIN by telephone was implemented.

In February 2000, an email address was created to allow clients to contact us for general enquiries.

Please visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page, which provides information related to the Social Insurance Number program.

Should you not find the information you need on this Web site, you are invited to contact us directly for personal assistance.

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