Applying for a Social Security Number

Before applying for a Social Security Number, you must wait a MINIMUM of ten business days from the start date on your visa document (DS-2019, I-20, etc.), OR ten days from when you first enter the U.S. -- whichever date is later. 

In order to obtain a Social Security number/card, you must be gainfully employed in the United States. The Social Security Administration considers an individual to be employed if he or she receives a wage or stipend from a U.S. source.

Please visit Social Security Administration's webpage to find the most convenient location and the appropriate forms required for applying for a U.S. Social Security Number.

The following documents will be needed in order to obtain a Social Security number:

• Valid passport, I-94 card (learn more about transition to electronic I-94 card), and visa stamp
• Form DS-2019 or Form I-20
• Lower portion of I-797 approval notice for those in H-1B status
• For F-1 Students only, an original letter verifying that the wage, assistantship, or stipend you are receiving is being paid by a U.S. source. The OIS can issue this letter for any F-1 student who requires an SSN. You will need to stop by our office with your I-20 and letter verifying on-campus employment before we can issue a letter for SSA.
• Completed application for a Social Security Card found on Social Security Administration's webpage

Local Social Security Offices:

1. Social Security Administration
   Suite 200
   1010 Park Ave
   Baltimore, MD 21201
    
2. Social Security Administration
   Suite 415 Rotunda Mall
   711 W. 40TH Street
   Baltimore, MD 21211

For additional questions please review the Social Security Administration Fact Sheet.

If you are NOT eligible for a Social Security Number, you can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Details concerning how to apply for the ITIN number can be found by clicking HERE.

This represents the current interpretation and practice of the Social Security Administration and is subject to change without notice. Implementation of these guidelines may vary from one SSA office to another.