The importance of keeping Social Security Number (SSN) safe for Citizen and Noncitizens The Social Security Number (SSN) is the number provided by U.S government for their Citizen or international students for several important reasons, primarily related to employment, taxation, and access to services.But its important to keep it safe and Private because thieves can use your SSN and other personal information to apply for loans and credit cards and open cellphone and utility accounts in your name.
What to do if you suspect your Social Security number has been stolen
- Visit IdentityTheft.gov to make a report and get a recovery plan. IdentityTheft.gov is a one-stop resource managed by the Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency. Or you can call 1-877-IDTHEFT (1-877-438-4338).
- File a police report and keep a copy for your records in case problems arise in the future.
- File an online report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at ic3.gov. Its mission is to receive, develop, and refer cybercrime complaints to law enforcement and regulatory agencies.
- Notify 1 of the 3 major credit bureaus and consider adding a credit freeze, fraud alert, or both to your credit report. The company you call is required to contact the others.
- Equifax at 1-800-525-6285.
- Experian at 1-888-397-3742.
- TransUnion at 1-800-680-7289.
- Regularly check your credit report for anything unusual. Free credit reports are available online at AnnualCreditReport.com.
- Contact the IRS to prevent someone else from using your Social Security number to file a tax return to receive your refund. Visit Identity Theft Central or call 1-800-908-4490.
What else can you do to protect yourself
Create or sign in to your personal my Social Security account to check for any suspicious activity. If you have not yet applied for benefits:
- You should not find any benefit payment amounts, and you should be able to access your Social Security Statement and view future benefit estimates.
- Review your Statement to verify the accuracy of the earnings posted to your record to make sure no one else is using your Social Security number to work.
If you receive benefits, you can add blocks to your personal my Social Security account:
- The eServices block prevents anyone, including you, from viewing or changing your personal information online.
- The Direct Deposit Fraud Prevention block prevents anyone, including you, from enrolling in direct deposit or changing your address or direct deposit information through my Social Security or a financial institution (via auto-enrollment).
Why do I need a Social Security Number?
The American Social Security Number or SSN is used to identify individuals for Social Security purposes and is often required as proof of identity when dealing with government agencies, employers, insurance companies, and banks.
You need the number, for example, for:
- the opening of a US bank account
- building up your credit history
- renting an apartment
- buying a property
- registering with utility companies (e.g., electricity, gas, telephone)
- applying for Social Security benefits (health insurance, pension payments)
- filing the tax return
Why international students need an SSN
- Employment: An SSN is required for anyone who works in the U.S., including international students. Employers use SSNs to report wages to the government and to determine eligibility for Social Security benefits.
- Taxation: An SSN is necessary to file federal and state tax returns. Even if you don’t owe taxes, filing a return may be required if you earned income in the U.S.
- Banking: Many banks require an SSN to open an account. While some banks may offer alternatives, having an SSN makes the process easier and expands the range of financial services available.
- Credit history: An SSN is used to track and build a credit history in the U.S., which is essential for obtaining credit cards, loans, and sometimes even signing a lease for housing.
- Access to services: Certain government and health services may require an SSN. Although you will typically use your student visa and insurance, an SSN might be needed for specific forms or benefits.
How international students can get an SSN
- Eligibility: To apply for an SSN, you must be eligible to work in the U.S. This usually means having an F-1 or J-1 visa and authorization to work on-campus or having approved Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), or Academic Training (AT).
- Application Process:
- Complete form SS-5: This is the application for a Social Security Card. It’s available online or at any Social Security Administration (SSA) office.
- Gather required documents: You’ll need to provide documentation proving your identity, immigration status, work eligibility, and age. This usually includes a passport, visa, I-20 (for F-1 students) or DS-2019 (for J-1 students), and an employment offer letter or work authorization form.
- Visit an SSA Office: With the completed Form SS-5 and necessary documents, visit an SSA office. It’s recommended to check if an appointment is required.
- Wait for the SSN: After applying, it typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to receive an SSN card by mail.
