Social Security Number

A Social Security Number (SSN) is used to identify individuals in the U.S. Social Security program.

Many international students think they need an SSN before they can work in the United States. This is not correct. An SSN is not work authorization. Even if you have an SSN, it does not mean you are authorized to work.

You must have proper work authorization before you begin any employment.

Overview

An SSN is generally assigned to individuals authorized to work in the U.S.  Employers use SSNs to report employees' wages or salary to the government for social security tax purposes.

According to the International Students and Social Security Numbers (ssa.gov, PDF) announced by the Social Security Administration:

"Social Security Numbers generally are assigned to people who are authorized to work in the United States. Social Security Numbers are used to report your wages to the government and to determine eligibility for Social Security benefits. Social Security will not assign a number to you just to enroll in a college or school."

F-1 international students and J-1 exchange students are only eligible to receive a Social Security Number after they have obtained U.S. work authorization (such as through on-campus or off-campus employment). 

Students must obtain U.S. work authorization BEFORE applying for SSN.

How to Apply for an SSN

See the Employment Authorization resources for specific steps on applying for different types of U.S. work authorization.

If students have obtained on-campus employment at SFSU, they will need an on-campus job offer letter from their on-campus employers and an SSN support letter from CGE to apply for an SSN.

On-campus employers are advised to use the job offer template provided by the Social Security Administration. See below. SFSU's Employer Identification Number (EIN) is 93-1137247.

Sample Job Offer Letter (Word)

  1. Read Request a Social Security Number on the Social Security Administration website.
    If you are in the U.S., you can apply online and then visit a local Social Security office to submit your documents. After your application is approved, you will receive your Social Security card by mail within 14 days.
  2. Find your nearest Social Security Administration office.
  3. On the day of your appointment, bring the following documents:
    • Valid passport
    • I-20 or DS-2019
      • I-20 (F-1 students): SEVP allows electronic signatures and transmission. You must print your I-20, sign it with a blue pen and bring it with you.
      • DS-2019 (J-1 students): SEVP allows electronic signatures and transmission. You must print your DS-2019, sign it with a blue pen and bring it with you.
    • I-94 arrival record (print from DHS CBP I-94)
    • Proof of employment (one of the following):
      • On-campus employment:
        • Job offer letter from your on-campus employer
        • SSN support letter from CGE
      • Off-campus employment:
        • F-1 students:
          • CPT: I-20 with CPT authorization
          • OPT or economic hardship: valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
        • J-1 students:
          • Academic Training: job offer letter and SSN support letter from an exchange student advisor