Social Security

WHAT IS A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER?
  • 9 digit numbers generally assigned to people who are authorized to work in the United States. (Example 995-35-1122)
  • Used to report your earnings to the US government

DO I NEED A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER?

  • If you DO NOT plan to work while you study, then you DO NOT need a social security number
  • If you DO plan to work while you study, then you DO need a social security number

WHEN CAN I APPLY FOR A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER?

  • You can apply 10 days after you enter the US.
  • You must have a job offer BEFORE you can apply for a social security card.

HOW DO I APPLY FOR A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER?

  • Complete an Application for a Social Security Card. (Come by the ISS or go to http://www.ssa.gov/online/ss-5.pdf)
  • Obtain a Certificate of On-Campus Employment Eligibility Form from the ISS
  • Obtain a job offer letter from your employer.

WHERE DO I APPLY FOR A SOCIAL SECURITY CARD?

Social Security Administration Office
2708 East Parkway Drive
Russellville, AR 72802
Phone Number: (479)968-2762
Toll-Free: 1-800-772-1213

What documents do I take to the Social Security Office?

  • Application for Social Security Card
  • Certificate of On-Campus Employment Eligibility Form from the ISS
  • Job Offer Letter
  • Current Visa
  • Current Passport
  • Current I-20
  • Current I-94 Number

WHERE CAN I WORK?

  • Students may work anywhere ON-CAMPUS
  • Off-campus work is only allowed:

1. Internships CPT (Curricular Practical Training)

2. Economic Hardship **

3. During OPT (Optional Practical Training)

HOW MANY HOURS PER WEEK CAN I WORK?

  • Students may work ON-CAMPUS up to 20 hours per week while school in session.
  • During vacations and breaks, students may work ON-CAMPUS 28 hours per week, according to university policy.

On Campus Employment Eligibility Form

Job Offer Letter Example

Social Security Orientation

** The application must be sent to the Department of Homeland Security with the assistance of the ISS