Social Security Numbers
A Social Security Number (SSN) is issued for employment purposes in the United States. SSNs enable the government to track earnings for tax purposes and the Social Security System.
Employment: If you are paid by UMass Chan and do not have a SSN, you must apply for one. If you have an SSN from a previous stay in the United States, you do not need to apply for a new number. Once you have an SSN, it is your number for life. Therefore, when you leave the U.S., we recommend that you keep the card in a safe place, in case you return to the U.S. in the future. If you need to replace the card from a previous visit, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) for assistance.
Banking: Visa holders do not need an SSN to open a bank account or for most other financial transactions. The bank may ask you to complete a form W-8BEN to prove that you are exempt from the requirement of providing an SSN.
Purchasing a cell phone: Your cell phone company might tell you that you need an SSN to purchase a cell phone or a calling plan. It is not required to have an SSN, but if you do not, the phone company will probably ask you for an additional deposit. Some "prepaid" cell phone plans do not require an SSN or an extra deposit, so make sure to check with your phone carrier.
Driver's License: In Massachusetts, you will need to show either your SSN card or a denial letter from the Social Security Office if you want to apply for a Massachusetts driver's license.
When applying for a Social Security Number, please reach out to the ISO. Students and Scholars in F or J status must be registered in SEVIS before applying for their SSN.
The SSA verifies the status of all non-immigrant applicants for an SSN with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
For more information and to obtain the proper forms, download the Social Security Administration's Guide for International Students (PDF). This information also applies to international researchers and scholars new to the US.
Once you receive your SSN, please let your dedicated ISO Specialist know. If you are paid by UMass Chan, you will be provided with instructions on updating section 1 of your Form I-9 as well as updating your Sprintax Calculus Profile.