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Social Security Number

All U.S. employers require employees to have a Social Security Number (SSN). This unique nine digit identification number is issued by the U.S. government. and is necessary for getting paid, paying taxes, getting a driver's license, obtaining credit cards and much more. Once you obtain your SSN, you must guard it carefully. The Social Security Number is a permanent ID number. Only share your SSN with individuals or organizations whom you believe trustworthy and have a valid reason for needing your social security number. You can find more information about SSNs from the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Do I need a Social Security Number?

If you will be working on-campus, reciving a fellowship or stipend, or if you are a J-1 scholar it is necesary for you to obtain a Social Security Number. 

I do not t have a job or stipend.  Can I get a Social Security Number?  

If you do not plan to work on campus or have a fellowship or stipend, you are unfortunately not eligible for a social security number.  We realize that it maybe beneficial for you to have a social security number in order to purchase a cell phone, rent an apartment, buy a car, or apply for a credit card.  Although these services do not officially require a social security number, company policy may dictate the need for the SSN.  

When can I apply for a Social Security Number?

International Students can apply for a Social Security Number 12 days after their initial or most recent entry to the United States in their current status.
International Students can apply for a Social Security Number only after obtaining a job offer. This may seem counter-intuitive: You need a Social Security Number before you can begin work, yet you need an offer of employment before applying for a Social Security Number. Employers are aware of this fact and understand that you will not be able to begin work until after you have obtained a Social Security Number.

An SSN cannot be issued for On-Campus Employment or for authorized CPT if the start date for the employment is more than 30 days into the future.

Individuals applying for an SSN based on an approved EAD card (such as F-1 OPT or J-2 work permission) may not apply if the valid from (start) date of the EAD card is in the future.

What documents do I need to obtain a Social Security Number?

The Social Security Administration requires International Students to present the following documents when applying for a Social Security Number.

• Proof of Offer of Employment
• Proof of Eligibility of Employment
• I-20 or DS-2019
• Valid Passport with I-94 Card

What is a Proof of Offer of Employment?

International students who obtain on-campus non-fellowship funded employment, must ask their employer to complete the International Student Employment Form. The completed International Student Employment form will serve as Proof of Offer of Employment for students with on-campus non-fellowship funded jobs. International students who have fellowship funded positions can present their letter of admission which specifies terms of their fellowship as proof of employment.

International students who find off-campus employment (CPT, OPT or Academic Training) positions must obtain an Intent to Hire letter from their employer.

What is Proof of Eligibility of Employment?

Once you've found a job and have Proof of Offer of Employment, the ISSO can prepare a social security letter which details your student status and your eligibility to work in the United States. The ISSO will only give social security letters to students who have provided Proof of Offer of Employment to our office.

You can request a social security letter online. The letter takes approximately three to five business days to prepare. Once the letter is completed, you will be contacted via email. You must come to the office with your Proof of Offer of Employment before we will release the social security letter to you. No exceptions will be made.

How do I get my Social Security Number?

Here are the steps International Students must take to obtain an SSN.

• Step 1: Get a job and ask your employer for a Proof of Offer of Employment.
• Step 2: Request SSN Letter from the ISSO. - This letter will serve as Proof of Eligibility of Employment.
• Step 3: Find out more about SSNs at the Social Security Administrations web site. You will also find the Social Security Application form at this web site. You may want to complete the form in advance or at least look it over before going to the SSA.
• Step 4: Go to the local Social Security Administration Office (50 Prospect Street in Waltham) with all your documents/forms/letters: Proof of Employment, Proof of Eligibility of Employment, I-20 or DS-2019 and your valid passport containing your I-94 card.