goldphoenix,
i applaud your tenacity.
if you have documented fact (evidence, especially third-party witness) of the no-hire for lack of ssn, then sue the company.& knowing what you know you can win.
they are playing games behind your back.
attorneys & the "justice" system are somewhat in bed with the IRS, until you pull back the covers on them...
i'd never get an ssn if i didn't have one already (since i was 14/15 years of age, also told the same BS - "you need it to work..."; truth is, you only need it if you wish to pay taxes!

)...
jon