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Office for Global Education

Social Security Application Instructions

Social Security numbers are used to report your wages to the government. In order to work anywhere, you must have a Social Security number.  If you are authorized to work on or off campus, you may apply for a Social Security Number.

Please contact international@purchase.edu with any questions.

How to apply:

1. Send this sample letter of employment to your hiring department.

 Make sure the letter is on department letterhead, with all fields completed:

    •  Job location and phone number
    • Your position title
    • Supervisor’s name and title
    • Pay rate (how much you are paid per hour)
    • Anticipated state date
    • Number of hours per week
    • Federal Identification Number (FIN)
      • Note: hiring department should call HR to confirm the FIN

2. Email a copy of your employment letter to international@purchase.edu and request a student status verification letter from your DSO

3. Apply online for a new or replacement Social Security Number (SSN) card

    • When using the online application, we recommend you also request an appointment to visit the local Social Security office to present your documents.
    • Go to www.ssa.gov/locator, select ‘Locate an Office by ZIP’, enter your ZIP Code, and select ‘Locate’. Your local Social Security office’s information will be displayed.

4. Present the following original documents to your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office within 45 days after completing the online application

    • Employment letter,
    • Student status verification letter
    • Supporting documentation: I-20, passport, and visa.
    • If you have been approved for Optional Practical Training (OPT), you must bring the Employment Authorization Document (EAD card) and OPT approval.

5. After SSA verifies your document(s) and completes your request, you will receive your social security card in the mail within 14 business days.

Note: F-1 students who have permission to work are not subject to withholding of social security (part of FICA). If social security has been withheld, ask your employer for a refund. If you are unable to obtain a refund in this way, file a claim on Form 843 with the Internal Revenue Service.

 

Questions? Please email international@purchase.edu

Helpful links:

International Students and Social Security Numbers

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