Applying for Social Security
Procedure:
After you arrive in the U.S., schedule an appointment: call 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 am – 7:00 pm, Monday through Friday OR contact your local Social Security office. Make sure your Social Security appointment is no earlier than 2 business days after completing SEVIS Step 1 (Arrival Check-In), and no later than 45 days after you complete the online Social Security Application (below).
Decide which address you would like your Social Security card sent to. Here are some options:
If your name is on the mailbox at your housing, and you will be at that address for at least a few weeks, you can just use your housing address.
You can have the Social Security card sent to your work address or your employer’s home address. In this case use “c/o” in the address. For example: Jane Smith c/o Dunkin Donuts, 123 Main St, Ocean Beach, CA 99999.
Click here to complete an online Social Security Application At the end you will receive a reference number. Write the reference number down in a safe place. You will need it for your appointment.
Bring these items to the Social Security Office:
Reference number (from your online application)
Passport
J1 visa (probably inside your passport)
DS-2019
If you have any problems at your appointment, have the Social Security officer write down the problem, and his/her email address or phone extension. Send all the information to ERDT.
If you wish to get the Social Security number before the card arrives in the mail, return to the Social Security Office and ask if the number has been assigned yet.
Sponsor Letter:
Starting in September 2023, a sponsor letter is no longer required by Social Security. If you are asked for a sponsor letter, show this web page: https://secure.ssa.gov/poms.nsf/lnx/0110211345
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why should I apply for Social Security as soon as possible?
If Social Security has any delays in issuing your Social Security number, it is better for you to apply early, so that you have a better chance of receiving your number/card before the end of your program.
If you are considering finding a second job, you will probably need a Social Security card to show to the employer. Remember that ERDT and the U.S. government have strict rules regarding second jobs.
If you lose your passport, there is a good chance you will need to end the program and return home. The longer you wait to apply for Social Security, the better chance your passport could get lost.
I already have a Social Security number. Do I need to apply again?
No. If you know your Social Security number, you do not need to re-apply. Be sure to bring your Social Security card with you to the U.S. If you need a replacement card, visit a Social Security office to request one.
I lost my passport before applying for Social Security. What should I do?
Bring copies of your documents to the Social Security office. Explain that you lost your passport and need to apply for a number and card. Some Social Security offices will allow you to apply with copies, and some will not. If not, you will need to end your program now. You may still travel in the U.S. for the 30 day grace period, if you wish, but you may not work.
Contact ERDT and we will assist you in contacting your embassy or consulate to get a replacement passport so that you can travel home.
I lost my DS-2019 form before applying for Social Security. What should I do?
You will need a replacement. Contact ERDT and we will help.
Social Security told me that my name or birthdate is wrong on my I-94. What should I do?
You will need to go to a Port Of Entry to have the I-94 corrected. Contact ERDT for help finding the nearest port, or visit http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/toolbox/ports/ , click on your state, and look for the closest location with a Service Port (Usually, it will be located at an airport). Call the phone number and tell them you to have your I-94 corrected. They will instruct you on how to get to their office. Be sure to bring all of your documents with you.
Do I have to wait until I have my Social Security number/card before beginning work?
No. You may legally begin work as soon as you have successfully applied for Social Security. Show your employer the letter you received from Social Security when you applied. If your employer is unsure about this, you can show them this document: International Students And Social Security Numbers or they can contact ERDT. They can also visit this web page: http://www.socialsecurity.gov/employer/hiring.htm
If I quit a job before I get my Social Security number/card, do I need to give the number to my former employer?
Yes. If you do not give your former employer your Social Security number, you will lose money because you will not be able to get your tax refund.
Am I guaranteed to get a Social Security number/card during my stay if I follow the proper procedure?
Unfortunately, some students have long-term problems getting a Social Security card, due to a problem with the Social Security computer system. You will still get a letter from Social Security saying that you have successfully applied, so you can legally begin work. All ERDT employers have agreed to allow you to start work with this letter. However, you may have trouble getting a 2nd job, as 2nd job employers can require you to show your Social Security card.
If your program end date is approaching and you still do not have the card, apply again and list ERDT’s address for the card to be mailed. That way, we can mail the card to you in your home country when it arrives to our office.
What should I do if I never recieved an SSN during their stay in the USA?
Sprintax can help you request an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) if you don’t have an SSN. On step 2 - “Getting to know you,” “About you” section, answer that you do not have an SSN. Sprintax will walk you through the process of getting an ITIN.