Getting a Social Security Number

You need a Social Security number to get a job, collect Social Security benefits, and receive some other government services. It also helps the government keep track of your earnings and the benefits you can get. And it is used by banks and other agencies, such as schools, to identify you. You may be asked for your SSN when you rent an apartment or buy a home. The government department in charge of Social Security is called the Social Security Administration.

In general, only non-citizens who have permission to work from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can apply for a Social Security number. To apply for a Social Security number:

Step 1: Complete an Application For A Social Security Card (Form SS-5).

Step 2: Collect the following documents:

• Immigration status. To prove your U.S. immigration status, you must show your current U.S. immigration document, I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, issued to you when you arrived in the United States. If you are an F-1 or M-1 student, you also must show your I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. If you are a J-1 or J-2 exchange visitor, you must show your DS-2019, Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor Status.
• Work eligibility. For most foreign workers, you only need to show your I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Some foreign workers also must show their work permits from DHS (I-766 or I-688B). International students must present further documentation.
• Age. You must present your birth certificate if you have it or can easily obtain it. If not, you can present other documents, such as your passport or a document issued by DHS, to prove your age.
• Identity. Only certain documents are acceptable as proof of identity. An acceptable document must be current (not expired) and show your name, identifying information, and preferably a recent photograph. All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Photocopies or notarized copies of documents are not acceptable. Acceptable immigration documents include your:
  • Form I-551 (includes machine-readable immigrant visa with your unexpired foreign passport);
  • I-94 with your unexpired foreign passport; or
  • Work permit card from DHS (I-766 or I-688B).

Find the Social Security office closest to you by:

• Asking friends or neighbors where to find the nearest Social Security office.
• Calling 1-800-772-1213 between 7 AM and 7 PM. Information is given in English and Spanish. Free interpreter services are available.
• Looking for the address in the blue pages of the phone book.
• Looking on the Social Security Administration website or for Spanish, see http://www.segurosocial.gov/espanol/.

Your Social Security number will be sent to you in the mail. You should get your Social Security card about two weeks after the Social Security Administration has all documents needed for your application. If they need to verify any of your documents, it may take longer to get your SSN.