Social Security

• If you are new to the US, check some background information starting from here.
• The official web-site of the Social Security Administration (SSA) is here. Go to this web-site for general information, laws related to Social Security  and forms.
• An explanation about how the Social Security number is assigned. The states or organisations identified by the first 3 digits is listed here.
• Wondering what happens to your Social Security benefits once you leave the US? Check this page for more information. Part-3C & Part-4 are relevant.
• The entire Social Security Handbook is online. Browse through it.
• For a controversial look on whether you really need a Social Security Number (SSN), look here.
• If for some reason, you are not able to obtain a Social Security Number, check out the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number that can be used on tax returns and a few other places (where they are accepted).

Newbies:

• A fixed portion of your monthly income in the US will be deducted as Social Security Taxes. This applies even if you are on a H1-B visa. The purpose of Social Security is explained in this web-page. Read up on some more information out here.
• As soon as you arrive in the US (on a H1-B visa), you need to obtain a Social Security Number (SSN) and a Social Security card. This number is very important and almost anything credit, income or insurance related requires the use of your Social Security number as a unique identifying number. Protect your Social Security card carefully to avoid fradulent use by somebody to get benefits that you've paid for.
• This document provides some background on how SSA treats aliens (not E.T.'s but non-US citizens legally in the US).
• Find the Social Security office nearest you by going to this web-page.
• In California (perhaps only in the San Francisco/Bay Area), you need the following documents before you can apply for a Social Security card -
  • Some form of ID. You passport will do for this.
  • Proof of age. Once again you can use your passport for this.
  • Proof of legal presence in the US. Your I-94 for all kinds of visas (other INS approved documentation if you do not have a I-94). If you are on a H1 visa, your H1 approval notice (including the portion that is normally to be retained by your employer; this means the full page of your I-797) is also required to show that you are on a valid work permit.
  • Proof of requirement of a Social Security Number. If you are on a non-work visa (like a H4), the Social Security office requires you to show that you need a Social Security Number for a valid reason. Currently they accept the receipt and instruction permit that the DMV issues when you apply for a driving license the very first time.
• Find a printable version of the application form out here.

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