WTF is an SSN? Everything International Students Need to Know About Social Security Numbers
Hey there! If you’re gearing up to study in the U.S., one of the first things you’ll encounter in the realm of finances is the Social Security Number (SSN). You might be confused about what an SSN actually is, whether you need it to get a credit card, how to apply for one, and how to navigate the system if you don’t have it. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand everything you need to know about the SSN.
What Exactly is a Social Security Number (SSN)?
A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the U.S. government primarily to track individuals for Social Security benefits and tax purposes. It’s like your student ID but at a national level — it’s crucial not just for identification but also for taxes, accessing credit, and sometimes even for employment.
How to Obtain an SSN
Obtaining an SSN involves a few steps but is straightforward:
1. SSN Application Eligibility for Students: To apply for an SSN, international students need to demonstrate eligibility to work in the U.S. Here’s how you can qualify:
- On-campus Employment: If you have a job offer to work on your university’s campus, this qualifies you to apply for an SSN.
- Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Being approved for CPT also makes you eligible, as it is a form of work authorization tied to your study program.
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): Applying for and receiving approval for OPT, whether pre-completion or post-completion, allows you to apply for an SSN since it is work authorization directly related to your field of study.
- J-1 Students (exchange students): If you are a J-1 student, you can apply for an SSN with a letter of affiliation or support from your J-1 Program Advisor.
2. Required Documents: Here’s your packing list for the SSN office:
- Your passport with your visa.
- Your I-20 or DS-2019 form, which shows your student status.
- Proof of your employment eligibility. This could be a job offer letter if you’re working on campus or your work permit for off-campus employment.
- A completed SSN application form, which you can download from the SSA (Social Security Administration) website.
3. Visit the Social Security Office: You can’t do this online; you have to show up in person. Find your nearest SSA office, take all your documents, and submit your application. They’ll walk you through the process and let you know when your SSN card will be mailed to you — typically within two weeks.
The Importance of Keeping Your SSN Safe
Having an SSN is a significant responsibility:
- Identity Theft: Protect your SSN carefully as exposure can lead to identity theft where others might open accounts or take out loans in your name.
- Fraud Prevention: Never carry your SSN card in your wallet. Memorize the number and keep the card in a secure place. Share your SSN only when absolutely necessary.
- Phishing Scams: Be vigilant about scams asking for your SSN. Always verify the identity of anyone requesting your SSN and the reason for their request. If someone calls you pretending to be a bank or a credit card company, do not give them any information — especially not your SSN!
Best Practices for SSN Safety
- Limit Disclosure: Only share your SSN when legally required. Avoid sharing it over the phone or via email unless you are confident about the recipient’s identity and the necessity of disclosure.
- Stay Vigilant: Regularly check your credit report to detect any unusual activity early. This is a crucial step in catching identity theft.
- Secure Your Info: Use strong, unique passwords for any online accounts where your SSN is stored. Consider using a password manager to keep track of your passwords securely. You can use apps like OnePassword for this.
Is an SSN Necessary for Getting a Credit Card?
Most credit card companies in the U.S. will request your SSN to check your credit history and verify your identity. However, if you’re an international student without an SSN, don’t worry! There are specific credit cards designed for internationals. These cards might require alternative forms of identification, such as your passport.
How to Get a Credit Card Without an SSN
If you’re new to the U.S. and don’t have an SSN, here are a few pathways to consider:
- Credit Cards that Don’t Require an SSN: Some companies, like Adro, Discover, and firstcard, offer cards specifically tailored for international students that do not require an SSN.
- Secured Credit Cards: Another option is to apply for a secured credit card, where you make a deposit that usually sets your credit limit. This deposit acts as collateral and makes it easier to obtain a card.
Wrapping It Up
Getting your head around the whole SSN thing might seem a bit daunting at first, but it’s just another part of setting up your life here in the U.S. Whether you choose to get an SSN or find a workaround for your credit card needs, you’ve got options. Just like picking the right courses or finding the perfect study spot on campus, it’s all about finding what works best for you.
So there you have it! If you have any more questions or need a friend to help you navigate through other U.S. systems, just hit us up!
If you liked this article, do check out our other stuff:
Who are we?
My name is Krish and I am the co-founder and CEO of roam: a platform that simplifies international student migration by streamlining the acquisition of all the resources students needs to start their lives in a new country.
Built by international students, for international students — roam aims to become to the one-stop platform for all international student services globally by aggregating all the required resources and demystifying the complexities associated with getting set up.
If you’re an international student looking to make your life easier, check out our socials: Instagram, LinkedIn, Reddit, X.
