Obtaining a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN)

Social Security Number (SSN)

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a U.S. identification number issued to individuals who are authorized to work in the United States. Employers use your SSN to report your wages to the U.S. government. Your SSN is valid for life, so you only need to apply once.

Who Is Eligible?

You may apply for an SSN if you:

  • Have an on-campus job offer at St. Norbert College
  • Have the required employment verification letters

Steps to Apply for an SSN:

  • Secure an On-Campus Job
    • Obtain a job offer and an employer verification letter from your SNC supervisor.
  • Contact International Student Services - Center for Global Engagement (CGE)
    • Email international@snc.edu or visit the CGE office in person.
    • Bring your job offer and employer verification letter.
    • CGE will provide you with a letter confirming your F-1 eligibility to work on campus.
  • Prepare Your Documents - Bring the following to the Social Security office:
    • Employer verification letter (on SNC letterhead, signed by supervisor)
    • CGE verification letter
    • Completed SSN application (Form SS-5) *Be sure to include your SNC mailbox number
    • I-20
    • Passport and visa
    • Most recent I-94 record
  • Visit the Social Security Office to apply in person
    • Plan up to 1 hour for your visit. The office is about 20 minutes from campus.

After You Apply:

  • You may begin working after submitting your SSN application.
  • You will not be paid until your SSN is entered into SNC systems.
  • Your SSN card will be mailed to your SNC campus mailbox (usually within 1–2 weeks).

Once you receive your SSN card:

  • Bring it to the Payroll Office (Main Hall basement) immediately
  • Show it to your campus employer
  • Complete your I-9 form in Workday (required to receive pay)

For more information: https://www.ssa.gov/