Sample Social Security Letter

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O F F I C E O F I N T E R N A T I O N A L P R O G R A M S
Applying for a Social Security Number:
Procedures for F-1 Students
A Social Security Number (SSN) is generally assigned to people who are authorized to work in the United
States. Social Security Numbers are used to report your wages to the U.S. government and to determine
eligibility for Social Security benefits. Below you will find additional information about whether you need a
Social Security Number as well as instructions on how to apply.
Do I need a Social Security Number (SSN)?
If you are planning to work while you are a student at Colorado College, you must apply for a Social Security
Number (SSN). Only those students who have been authorized to work, and who have a job offer, will be
eligible for an SSN.
Will I need a number for any other purpose?
Some banks will ask for your Social Security Number in order to open a bank account. If you explain that you
are an international student, they usually are willing to accept your Colorado College student identification
number instead. Also, if you wish to apply for a Colorado state driver’s license, you will either need to have a
Social Security Number, or provide proof that you are not eligible for one (see the Office of International
Programs for more information).
Will I need to have a number before I start working?
You are not required to have an SSN before you start work. However, you will need to apply for one as soon
as you have been offered a job. You are not eligible to work until you have applied for an SSN and
submitted an SSN application receipt and student employment forms (I-9 and W-4) to the Student
Employment Coordinator in the Financial Aid Office. Your SSN receipt will be accepted until your Social
Security card is sent to you by mail. Please remember to bring a copy of that card to the Financial Aid Office
once it arrives.
When can I get a Social Security Number?
Generally, you must wait 15 business days from the date you entered the United States before applying for
your Social Security Number. After that---provided you have been offered a job---you may apply anytime.
Note: You cannot apply for an SSN more than 30 days in advance of your intended employment start
date.
How long does it take to receive my number?
You will receive a Social Security card with your number by mail. It normally takes between 3 and 5 weeks to
receive this card.
How do I apply?
1. Before you apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), you must first have an on-campus job offer.* Current
on-campus job openings are listed at:
2. After you have received an offer to work on-campus, submit a request to your supervisor for an on-campus
employment verification letter (see template below). Be sure to ask your supervisor to print the letter out on
departmental letterhead. Your supervisor will complete the online campus employment referral form (on
your behalf).
04/2015

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