You might see some more simplification coming to light when you just start calling instruments for what they are, i.e. SSN is property of the SSA, Birth Certificate is Property of the State, Drivers license is property of the state. So the next time a government agent asks you for any of these things state the condition of which you are offering the instrument at least verbally, " this is property of the state and if your looking for a benefit from the state take this instrument". You will get some kodak moments of facial expressions when you do this.