SOCIAL SECURITY REGISTRATION

Q: Can I apply for a social security number ("SSN") with an EAD? Can I apply directly or should go through an attorney?

A: You can now apply for SSN with an EAD. You can file your own application with Social Security Administration ("SSA") office. The SSA requires an unexpired document issued by USCIS such as Form I-551, I-94, I-688B, or I-766. Reciepts are not acceptable. The document must show that you are authorized to work in the United States. The following additional information is necesary:

* Age: A birth certificate is preferred, but a passport or USCIS document which shows your date of birth to establish your age is acceptable.

* Identity: A document in the name that will be on the the social security card. The identity document must be recently issued. Preference is for document with a photograph. However, a non-photo identity document is acceptable if it has enough information to identify the applicant (e.g., name, age, date of birth, or parents’ names). We can't accept a birth certificate or hospital birth record as evidence of identity. Some documents we may accept as proof of identity are:

If you are not authorized to work in the United States a social security card can be issued if the applicant is lawfully in the United States and needs the number for a valid nonwork reason. The card will be marked to show that the applicant cannot work. If the applicant does work, the SSA will notify the USCIS.

For example, a SSN will be assigned if a federal law or regulation requires requires a SSN for the applicant to receive a particular benefit or service or a state or local law requires provision of a SSN to get public assistance benefits to which an applicant has established entitlement. To comply with this exception, a statement on letterhead stationery from the government agency that is requiring you to provide an SSN is necessary.

The SSA wil not assign a SSN when the only reason for needing a number is to comply with a State statute requiring an SSN for issuance of a driver's license.

For more information: United States Social Security Administration