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Applying for Social Security

The Social Security Number (SSN) is a 9-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to those individuals who are eligible to work in the United States. The SSN is required in order to be paid for any work you do in the U.S. whether it is on-campus or for practical training. Though the SSN is only required to be paid by an employer, many other institutions in the U.S. ask for a SSN (i.e. banks, cell phone vendors, the Department of Drivers Licenses), and it is generally easier to obtain services from these institutions if you already have a SSN. You are under no obligation to obtain a SSN; however, if you plan to work in the United States, you will need to obtain one. Effective October 13, 2004, the SSA now requires that a student secure a job offer in order to qualify to apply for a SSN. With this new regulation, you will need to obtain a letter offering you a position before you will be able to apply for the SSN. The Office of Human Resources will provide you with the letter once you have obtained a job on campus. It takes approximately 2-3 weeks for the Social Security Administration to issue your SSN and card. However, it sometimes takes much longer. The SSA must verify your student status with the US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) before issuing you a number. This process can take from 10 days to 12 weeks to complete. Once you have a SSN, you will use the same number throughout your stay in the United States. The Social Security Administration is located at 7880 Mission Grove Pkwy South Riverside, CA 92508. Please contact the Human Resources Office for applications, job listings, and clerical testing. When you go to apply for your number, you will fill out an application form (HR will provide you with a copy). You will then present the application and the following original documents for their review & copy:
  • Valid passport
  • F-1 Visa
  • I-94 Form (white card stapled in your passport)
  • Current I-20 Form
  • Letter from Human Resources
  • If you have been issued CPT authorization for an internship, you may present the I-20 in lieu of a letter from the employer.
  • If you have been approved for OPT, you may present the EAD card in lieu of a letter from an employer
  • Letter from the International Student Office (if needed)
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