Social Security numbers (SSN) are used to report wages to the government and determine a person’s eligibility for Social Security benefits. An SSN is needed to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and receive other government services. However, an SSN is not required for certain services like obtaining a driver’s license. Once you are authorized to work in the United States, you can apply for an SSN and card from the Social Security Administration (SSA). You must apply for your SSN in person from inside the United States. Please allow about 10 days after entering the U.S. in your work authorized status for your entry to be reflected in the SSA system.
Applying for an SSN card is free, and the application can be found at: www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.html
You will be required to present documents proving your identity; work-authorized immigration status; and age. Documents to prove your identity and immigration status include your current U.S. immigration documents and unexpired foreign passport.
Acceptable U.S. Immigration documents include:
- Unexpired foreign passport with a current admission stamp showing admission permitting work
- Form I-551, Permanent Resident Card
- Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record Showing DHS work authorization
- Form I-766, Employment Authorization Document (EAD, work permit from DHS)
If you are an exchange visitor: J-1 Visitors must also show a DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status, and a sponsor letter to prove employment with sponsor letterhead and original signature that authorizes employment. If you are an international student: F-1 or M-1 students must show a Form I-120, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.
It takes approximately 3-4 weeks to receive the SSN card. You are not required to have an SSN before you start working, but the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires your employer to use your SSN to report wages. While waiting for your number, your employer may use a letter from the Social Security Administration showing you applied for a number.
Once assigned an SSN, it is your permanent number; you will not receive another. If you have a visa status of limited duration, your card will be annotated with a limitation. Should you obtain a green card, you can apply for a new card with no such limitation. Be sure to guard your SSN and card carefully; bad actors can use your SSN to steal your identity.