Guide To SSN Application

"We all know the benefits of having a social security number but if you still don't have one, you might want to know about the application process. These are the steps in applying for a social security number. First of all, an SSN is defined as a unique number assigned to you by the Social Security Administration (SSA).

Those who have social security numbers know how important having one is. In legal sense, social security number is used by agencies in the US, schools and other business organizations as a form of identification. This number is necessary to those who have legitimate jobs and pay taxes regularly. This is composed of 9 digits and these are divided in to three parts.

The first three numbers indicate the state in which the citizen is residing at the time of the application. The next two digits have no particular significance to the holder but are there to break the numbers into blocks that are easy to memorize. The last four characters stand for a straight numerical progression of allotted numbers. There are three types of SSN cards being issued nowadays.

Issued since the 1930s, the first type of card is considered to be a regular card which displays the name of the owner of the ssn. The owner of this type of card can work without any limitations. These cards are found in US citizens and permanent resident aliens or those who are holders of green cards.

The second type of SSN card bears the phrase ""NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT"". This card is issued by the Social Security Agency for people from another country who are legally admitted to the United States without a U. S. citizenship and work authorization from the immigration services. They need an SSN because the federal, state, or local law requires them to have one in order to avail of some benefits or services.

The third type of SSN was issued in 1992. This is issued to individuals staying in the US in a temporary basis but have the authorization to work from the immigratio service. The card will bear the phrase ""Valid for Work Only with Ins Authorization"". When applying for a social security number, secure Form SS-5 which can be obtained fromt he Social Security Agency. Make sure that you read all the guidelines carefully and then make sure that you pass all the necessary requirements for the application. Others can just mail these documents while those who just turned 18 are required to make a personal appearance when they apply.

However, if you can't work in the US because you were not given permission, a letter with the letterhead of the government agency stating that you need to secure a number, is needed from you. The letter should have your name, as the applicant, the law which is requiring you to apply and a statement that you have satisfactorily completed all the necessary requisites so that you can have your own social security number."