Instructions for F-1 and J-1 Students to Apply For a Social Security Number

The Social Security Number (SSN) is a U.S. taxpayer identification number and is intended only for use in relation to employment in the U.S. International students who are authorized to work in the U.S. AND have a job offer may apply for a SSN. The SSN does not represent permission to work, nor is it proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence. Once you obtain a SSN, it is your number forever and may be used on subsequent visits to the U.S. You should not have more than one SSN.

1. Once you have been offered an on-campus job offer, ask your employer to fill out a Work Permit. Blank Work Permit forms can be downloaded by your employer from the Hofstra Portal..
2. Request a Social Security letter from the Multicultural and International Student Programs Office (MISPO). To obtain this letter, please fill out a Letter Request Form, which can be picked up from the MISPO office or downloaded from the MISPO webpage, through the “International Students” tab, under “Forms.” To qualify for the letter, you must be registered full-time for the current term and have completed the immigration check-in procedures. Submit your Social Security letter request and your original Hofstra Work Permit form to MISPO. 
3. Complete the application for a SSN. Specific information about how to apply for a SSN is posted on the official Social Security Administration (SSA) website http://www.ssa.gov/pubs/10181.html and on Studyinthestates.gov http://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/resources/social-security-number
4. Apply for the SSN at a Social Security Administration (SSA) Office. The closest SSA office is located at 211 Station Road,  Mineola, NY (instructions and map attached.)
   
   * At the SSA Office: Ask for a receipt or a letter of verification indicating that you have applied for the SSN.
5. Present the SSN receipt, and your immigration documents to Student Employment to complete paperwork necessary for employment. They will then verify your ability to work at this time and set you up on the payroll. 
6. Your Social Security Card will be mailed to the address indicated on your application within 2-4 weeks. Once you receive your card, you must present it to Student Employment.