Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Identification numbers are a necessary way to keep track of your life. This includes your car, your personal belongings, your business and your finances.

There are several different types of identification numbers. In fact, almost every piece of identification has a number attached to it. This includes a passport number, a driver’s license number and a bank account number. Even your movie rental card, your library card, your student card and your gym membership card has a bar code or number attached to it.

Below we have listed some of the most important identification numbers for everyday life.

A VIN is literally your vehicles’ fingerprint. All vehicles have a VIN and this number is put into a system. It provides information on the manufacturer, year, color, etc. However, your VIN number also reports accidents, thefts, insurance coverage. If you are buying a used car, you can see the history of the vehicle by checking the VIN.

Personal Identification Number (PIN)
Your PIN is your code. It is your personal number to access funds usually established by your financial institution. While some institutes will send you a PIN number, most of the time you can choose which number you would like to use.

PIN’s are usually 4 to 6 digits for bank cards but can vary for other accounts such as your mobile phone SIM card account. They can be made up of letters or numbers and act as a password for protection.

While some people choose something really easy so they can remember it, such as 1111 or 1234, this is not a good idea. You should use a personal number that no one will know off hand. Some people choose their date of birth, address or last four digits of their phone number, which are also too obvious as this information is easy to access.

You should choose something completely unique to you that no one else knows- for example, the name of your first pet, the number of your favorite hockey player and baseball player, or a favorite word. Make sure the words or numbers have meaning to you; if not, then you may forget your PIN.

Employer Identification Number (EIN)
For businesses, an EIN is used to identify a company. It is also called a Federal Tax Identification Number and is used for taxpaying purposes. You can apply online for EIN or visit your nearest state IRS office.

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
The ITIN is necessary for tax proceedings done by the IRS. In most cases, you will not be able to work without one. ITIN’s are for foreign nationals who do not have a Social Security Number. This includes non-residences and non-citizens of the United States of America.

In a sense, these various identification numbers puts you on the map; or at least in a computing system. This can ensure that your assets are protected and your life is secure.