Social Security Number Application Procedures
What you should know before you apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)
How to apply for a SSN
Step 1 - Obtain proof of employment authorization. The nature of the proof depends on the type of employment eligibility being used to support the application for a SSN:
For F-1 on-campus employment and J-1 on-campus employment, present a completed Social Security Number (SSN) Verification Form for On-Campus Employment.
For F-1 Curricular Practical Training (CPT), present an I-20 endorsed for CPT authorization. Apply for CPT through ISSS.
For F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT) or off-campus employment, present an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) authorized for OPT. Apply for OPT through ISSS.
Step 2 - Take proof of employment authorization, Form I-94, Form I-20 (F-1 students) or Form DS-2019 (J-1 students), and passport to SSA along with a foreign or US driver’s license or your birth certificate. (Visit Social Security Administration for information and directions to the SSA office nearest you.)
Your Social Security Card will be mailed to your U.S residential address in approximately two weeks. The process may take up to two months if your records do not immediately appear in SAVE.
After you receive your SSN
The SSN is an important document and should be safeguarded.
Report your SSN to the Office of the Registrar via the e-form at Social Security / Tax Identification Number Update Form.
Social Security Number and Taxes
Although your employer should withhold any U.S. income tax related to your employment, Social Security Withholding/Medicare (F.I.C.A.) should not be deducted from the salary of F-1 and J-1 students, unless you are considered a “resident for tax purposes,” a situation which normally occurs after a student has been here at least five years.
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