Social Security Number Verification Form - University Of Washington printable pdf download

Center for International Education (CIE)

Husky Hall 1212

18115 Campus Way NE, Box 358500, Bothell, WA 98011

Phone: 425-352-3876; Fax: 425-352-5455

Email:

uwbintl@uw.edu

Website:

How to Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)

Why is a Social Security Number Needed?

A Social Security Number (SSN) is used to track an employee’s wages for benefits eligibility

and tax-reporting requirements. As an F-1 international student, you are required to obtain a SSN

if you become employed on or off campus in the U.S. If you are a student who has been awarded

an on-campus fellowship, stipend, or assistantship, you should apply for a SSN as soon as

possible upon your arrival at the University (see below for more details and suggested timing for

your application).

According to U.S. law, a SSN is required only for employment and tax-reporting purposes.

However, many institutions – including banks, cell phone companies, the Department of

Licensing, utility companies, landlords, and other businesses – are in the practice of requesting a

SSN as a means of establishing identity or credit history, before they agree to provide their

services. It is not mandatory to have a SSN to obtain a driver's license, cell phone, credit card,

insurance, admission to an academic institution or other "non-work" reasons.

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

Students who are ineligible for a SSN (no current employment, studying in the U.S. for less than

6 months, etc.) may apply for an ITIN. This number can sometimes be used in place of a SSN.

Applications must be submitted through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). See the IRS website

for more information:

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When Should I Apply & How Long Will It Take?

You should wait 10 days after your arrival in the U.S. to submit your application. Ask the Social

Security Office for a receipt confirming that you submitted your application. You will receive

your U.S. Social Security Card by mail, printed with your SSN, within 1 to 3 weeks.

What Type of Employment Am I Eligible For?

Lawful F-1 students are permitted to work only up to 20 hours/week when the quarter is in

session, and up to 40 hours/week during a break/vacation quarter. Students must follow all

employment regulations governing them.

Undergraduate Students: Employment must be on the UW Bothell campus and Non-Federal

Work Study. Students are also eligible for paid internships during their studies, which can be on

or off campus.

Graduate Students: Consult with International Student Services to discuss your employment

options.

How Can I Find an On-Campus Job or Internship?

Students can visit the Career Center to learn about available on-campus jobs and internship

opportunities. Jobs are also posted on the center’s website at:

internships/oncampus

Social Security Number Verification Form - University Of Washington