Getting your Social Security Card

If you are a new international TA, Faculty member or Staff member...

In order to work in the United States, you'll need to get a social security card which is used for tax purposes. It is also often used as an identification number for many utilities/cell phone companies or doctor's offices. (You can request that they use a different number as a means of identification and it's generally suggested that you do this in order to keep that number private.) It should NOT be shared with anyone as it's a private number and if someone steals your number they could open up a credit card in your name, have your name attached to it and you'd be required to pay the bill. (This is an extreme example of a crime that is commonly committed with stolen social security numbers.)

In order to get your Social Security Card, please follow the information stated on the attached document below. However, also please keep in mind the following information.

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS

If you are new to UW-Madison (including transfer students), please note that it takes time before you are eligible for a social security number. You must first attend the ISS orientation and be registered for classes.

You must have a job on campus, (Your TA Appointment) You will need a letter of appointment from the Math Dept Payroll Coordinator. Take the letter to ISS. ISS will write a letter of support for you to take to the Social Security Administration office to apply for your Social Security number. The letter will take ISS 3 business days to write and will be back dated accordingly.

Please do not go to the Social Security Administration office before the date on your letter. You will need to wait at least 3 weeks from the time you attend ISS orientation before you can go to the Social Security Office with your documents. It takes time for data to migrate from the SEVIS system to the system used by the Social Security Administration office. They will be unable to assist you if you come before the data shows up in their system. You will then need to return to their office for a second trip at a later date. Please note that you can begin your campus work, including TA, PA, RA positions without your social security number.

Once you receive your Social Security Number, you will need to bring the card to the Payroll Coordinator (214 Van Vleck) to copy for your payroll record. Please do this as soon as possible after your receive the card! (DON'T FORGET!)