A Social Security Number (SSN) is a numerical code assigned to U.S. citizens. It is also assigned to a few immigrants to track their income and assess benefits. The Social Security Number was established in 1935. In particular, in the United States, a person is required to provide an SSN to receive credit, open a bank account, access government benefits, or private insurance. It is also required to buy several expensive items, including a home or a car.
What is the Social Security Number?
All U.S. legal residents (citizens, permanent residents, and temporary/working residents) have a Social Security Number with very few exceptions. Moreover, people who are not employed (both citizens and non-citizens alike) would have an SSN. It tells how valuable it is to companies and government bodies. Also, the Social Security Administration (SSA) issues social security numbers and cards.
A Social Security Number and Social Security card can be obtained by filling out the Social Security Administration’s Form SS-5. It is an application for a Social Security Card. However, the types of forms include a form for having the first card, removing a card, and modifying or rectifying SSN records. There is no fee to get a card or a number. A person can change its Social Security Number under some circumstances.
Steps to Get Social Security Number
If you are studying in the U.S. and want to get an SSN, then follow these steps:
1. Speak to your DSO on employment and training in the USA
Your DSO will share crucial details about the F and M student regulations and specifications and confirm that you are qualified to apply for an SSN.
2. Verify that you have an active status in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
Until filing for an SSN, the SEVIS record must be in active status for at least two days. If you have a different status, then you will not be eligible to apply for an SSN.
3. Wait ten days after arriving in the U.S. before applying for an SSN to allow ample time to update your arrival details in all government systems
SSA takes use of the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) software to check your student status as a non-immigrant and decide whether you qualify for an SSN. Also, you can use the SAVE Case Check online to track the progress of your SAVE verification test.
4. Visit a local SSA branch
You can apply your SSN card application in person at any SSA branch. Be prepared to have your original documents to show your age, identity, and immigration status approved for work. All evidence of legal status and authorization to operate must be unexpired.
Conclusion
SSN is a nine-digit number issued by the U.S. government to all U.S. citizens and qualifying residents of the United States who apply for one. The government uses this figure to keep track of your earnings over your lifetime and the number of years employed.
