Social Security Number

A Social Security number (SSN) is a nine-digit personal identification number issued by the U.S. Social Security Administration that is used in applying for employment and filing taxes. SSNs are assigned to individuals for life. Always keep your SSN card in a safe place. You do not have to carry it on you at all times.

An SSN is not equivalent to employment authorization. International students should always consult with ISSS about types of authorized employment before engaging in any work (paid or unpaid).

Who Can Apply

International students and scholars must have current work authorization in order to apply for an SSN.

F-1 students may apply if they have on-campus employment, have been approved for curricular practical training (CPT), or have received their EAD Card after applying for optional practical training (OPT).
J-1 students may apply if they have on-campus employment or have been approved for academic training.
J-1 scholars may apply ten days after they have arrived in the United States and their J-1 immigration record is validated and active.

If You Are Ineligible

If you are not eligible for an SSN, you can request a Social Security letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration. The official letter from the Social Security office serves as evidence of SSN ineligibility, enabling you to obtain a driver's license, a state ID, or a lease for an apartment and to open a bank account.

If you need to file taxes and are not eligible for an SSN, please contact ISSS.

Applying for a Social Security Number

International students and scholars must apply for an SSN in person with Social Security after preparing specific documentation corresponding to the type of employment authorization sought, as detailed below. According to the Social Security Administration, you will be mailed your Social Security card approximately two weeks after applying. When you go to complete your application in person at the Social Security Card Center, you may ask for a receipt for your submitted SSN application.

Scheduling a Social Security Number Appointment

To apply for a Social Security number (SSN), you must attend an SSN application appointment in person at the Social Security Card Center in the NYC borough or other town or city where you live. Please see the section above about how to submit your SSN application and gather the materials you will need for your appointment. You will be prompted to schedule your in-person appointment after submitting your online SSN application.

For assistance with scheduling your appointment, you can call the Social Security Card Center where you plan to apply. If you are unable to schedule your appointment online or by phone, you can visit the Social Security Card Center during its office hours for support. You should bring all of your original application materials with you.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Social Security Card

If your Social Security card is lost or stolen, you should file a police report.

To apply for a replacement card from the Social Security Administration, you must have current employment authorization and follow the steps described above. This means that if you do not have current employment authorization, you are not eligible to apply for a replacement card.

When you apply for a replacement card, your Social Security number will remain the same. You may continue to use the number if you know it, even if your card has been lost or stolen. Your number will not change when your card is replaced.