To obtain a Social Security Number (SSN), noncitizens must be authorized to work by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS); however, a noncitizen not authorized to work does not need an SSN. An SSN is used to report wages and determine a person’s eligibility for social security benefits to collect or receive other government services. An SSN is not needed to get a driver’s license, register for school, get private health insurance, or apply for school lunch programs or subsidized housing. Most companies like banks or credit card companies do not require a person to provide a SSN because their identity can be proven a different way.

           A non-immigrant may apply for an SSN on their immigrant application if they are lawfully present in the U.S. and plan to apply for work authorization from DHS and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They may also apply for an SSN by visiting a Social Security Office in person if their visa status allows them to work. 

           To apply for a SSN a person must prove their identity, work-authorized immigration status, age, and have a completed application. They can prove their identity and work-authorized immigration status by showing their current U.S. immigration documents, unexpired foreign passports or other acceptable documents. An individual’s foreign birth certificate can be used to prove their age or they may bring other documents such as an unexpired passport or any DHS issued documents. Lastly, a completed Social Security Card application, Form SS-5, is required. 

If a non-immigrant is not authorized to work by DHS, they may still apply for a SSN. However, it must be for a valid non-work reason. This could include a state or federal law requiring a non-immigrant to have a SSN to receive benefits they were already entitled to. In most cases, the service or license being sought after can be attained without a SSN. Lastly, it is important to note an SSN given for a non-work purpose may not be used to work in the U.S.

           The best time to apply for an SSN is 10 days after arriving in the U.S. This makes verifying DHS documents online easier and speeds up the processing time. There is no cost for applying for an SSN.

Amber Sullivan, Law Clerk, BridgehouseLaw Charlotte