Social Security Administration Information

Any F-1 Student or J-1 Exchange Visitor will need a Social Security Number (SSN) if they are employed in any capacity.

If you are not employed, you do not qualify for an SSN and cannot apply for one.

Social Security Numbers are issued by the Social Security Administration.  

  • The ISS/SUNY Poly does not issue Social Security Numbers to any individual.

If you are an F-1 Student or J-1 Exchange Visitor and are employed (whether on campus or off campus), you must follow the following steps to obtain a Social Security Number: 

  1. Submit the F-1 Student: Social Security Administration Letter Request – SUNY Polytechnic Institute Forms
    1. You will receive an email from the ISS when your letter is ready for you to pick up 
      1. Processing may take up to 5-7 business days. 
      2. You must bring your SUNY Polytechnic Institute student ID to receive your SSN Request Letter from the ISS 
  2. Submit your online application for an SSN at The United States Social Security Administration
    1. The SSA strongly encourages all applicants to submit the online application prior to their in-person appointment 
  3. Make an appointment with the Social Security Administration
    1. While walk-ins are accepted, it is strongly recommended that you make an appointment with the SSA to obtain your Social Security Number
    2. If you do not make an appointment, walk-ins are assisted on a first come, first served basis 
  4. Attend your appointment with the Social Security Administration 
    1. Review the list of required documents and application procedures carefully
    2. If you live off campus, you CANNOT use a SUNY Poly mailing address for your Social Security application or mail delivery. 
      1. The US Postal Service cannot legally deliver mail to any address where you are not residing 
      2. Any mail shipped to SUNY Poly will be “returned to sender” if you do not live on campus 
  5. Update your employer with your Social Security Number
    1. Once you have your SSN and have received your card in the mail, bring your SSN card to your employer so they may update their records.

*Important*

Keep your Social Security card safe!

  • Do not carry your SSN card in your purse or wallet. 
  • Keep your card in a safe location (e.g.: with your passport and immigration documents)
  • Your Social Security Number is your number for LIFE, even if you depart the U.S. and return many years later.
  • If you lose your SSN card, or if it is destroyed or damaged, you must contact the Social Security Administration to request a new card. 

 

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