HelloStampedOfficialSocial Security Administration — Social Security Number and Card · Last verified
Getting a Social Security number
An SSN is needed for payroll, and it is issued by the Social Security Administration rather than by an immigration agency. What you need depends on your status.
Who can get one
A Social Security number is issued to people authorized to work in the United States. If you have work authorization — through a status that permits employment, or through an employment authorization document — you can apply. Somebody with no work authorization generally cannot get an SSN and may need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number from the Internal Revenue Service instead for tax purposes.
Source: Social Security Administration — Social Security Number and Card · in effect from 2019-01-01
What to bring
Bring your passport, your I-94, your immigration status document such as Form I-20 or Form I-797, and your employment authorization document if you have one. Students applying on the basis of on-campus employment usually also need a letter from the employer and the designated school official. Check the Social Security Administration's own list before going, because it is specific and an incomplete application means a second trip.
Source: Social Security Administration — Social Security Number and Card · in effect from 2019-01-01
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Frequently asked questions
- Can I get an SSN on H-4 without work authorization?
- Generally no. An SSN is issued to people authorized to work. Without work authorization you may need an ITIN from the IRS for tax purposes instead.
- Do I need a job offer first?
- It depends on your status and the basis of your application. Students applying because of on-campus employment usually need a letter from the employer and their DSO. Check the SSA's document list for your situation.