Social Security Numbers (SSN)
People who work in the US will need a Social Security Number for payment and tax purposes.
Social Security Administration (SSA) offices are open for walk-ins and by appointment.
You can apply for a social security number at any SSA office.
If you apply at the Newport News Social Security Office, and do not receive your card within 4 weeks, contact [[ehbailey, Emily Bailey]].
Eligibility
- Typically you must have a job or job offer to be eligible for SSN, though this varies by immigration status. See the list of documents below for information about your status.
- Having a Social Security Number facilitates many things in the US, but aif you
cannot get a SSN , you can still function quite well. -
New students and scholars in F-1 or J-1 status must complete their immigration check-in and have it approved by the Office of International Students, Scholars & Programs (ISSP) before applying.
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If you are new to W&M, contact ISSP to make sure your immigration record is registered.
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Returning students and scholars who were at W&M in previous semesters will already have their immigration records registered.
- If you are on a Musskie, AMIDEAST, or Fulbright DS-2019, your sponsoring organization will be responsible for registering your immigration record.
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- You can apply for a Social Security Number once you have been in the U.S. for 10 days. You can try applying earlier than this, which is sometimes successful; if not, you must apply again.
Application Process
- There is no fee to apply for the social security number.
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Online Social Security Application: You must file your application online before going in-person to a Social Security Office.
- Once you receive your Social Security Number, keep it in a safe place. This number will be valid for the rest of your life, and it can be very difficult (and sometimes impossible) to learn it if you lose your card.
Documents needed when Applying
F-1 Students working for W&M or VIMSStudents must already have a job offer, and may apply for a SSN no earlier than 30 days before the start date of your on-campus job.
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F-1 Students with CPTStudents may apply for a SSN no earlier than 30 days before the start date on their CPT.
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F-1 Students with OPT or an EAD cardStudents may apply for a SSN no earlier than the start date of their EAD.
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J-1 Students
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J-1 Scholars and J-1 Student Interns
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H-1B Employees
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J-2 Dependents (must have work authorization)
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F-2 and most H-4 Dependents are not eligible for a Social Security Number because they are not eligible for work authorization.
Where to Apply
Social Security Administration
600 Gaston Ct, Newport News, VA 23606
We recommend looking up the hours of the local office before going, as they may vary.
Other Social Security offices are located all over the U.S.; it is fine to apply at any of them. You must typically wait in line, so allow waiting time.
The Social Security Office has metal detectors, so you may want to leave bags and backpacks at home.
Transportation
At the beginning of each semester, we sometimes offer a trip to the Social Security Office. Spaces are limited, and are advertised on the International Student Listserv when available. Otherwise, you must secure your own transportation; see available transportation options.
Directions by Car
It takes about 30 minutes by car to reach the Social Security office in typical traffic.
Directions by Bus
Your route may involve both the Williamsburg Area Transit as well as the Hampton Roads Transit Bus System. The route is complex because you are using two bus systems, so research your trip itinerary in advance.
Google Maps also has an option to search for routes using public transit.
Employment Paperwork
When you are hired as an international student for a W&M or VIMS job, there are special steps you need to follow to get paid. See our international employment resource.
