Congratulations on taking your next big step—whether you’re starting a new job, beginning your studies, or preparing for your future in the United States!
One important item you’ll need along the way is a Social Security Number (SSN).
A Social Security Number is more than just an ID; it’s your key to many parts of life in the U.S. For example:
Employment: Employers need your SSN to report your wages and tax withholding to the government.
Banking: Many banks require an SSN to open accounts or apply for credit, since interest earned is taxable.
Government Benefits: An SSN helps U.S. citizens and permanent residents qualify for Social Security, Medicare, and other benefits. If you pay FICA taxes, those contributions may count toward benefits you could receive in the future.
Taxes: Your SSN is necessary to file taxes correctly, claim tax treaty benefits if applicable, and receive refunds.
If you have employment authorization—such as on-campus work, Curricular Practical Training (CPT), or Optional Practical Training (OPT)—you are eligible to apply for an SSN. Please speak with your designated school official (DSO) before applying.
Whether you’ve just landed a job (congratulations!) or are planning ahead, this guide will explain why an SSN is valuable and how to apply for one.
Once you receive your Social Security Number, protect it carefully: do not carry your card with you regularly, avoid sharing your number online unless through secure channels, and never provide it to anyone other than trusted entities.
Read more about international students and social security numbers on the SSN website here.
For students who will be paid by ACU:
First, bring your passport, I-20, most recent I-94 and ACU ID to ACU's Human Resources (Admin 213) office to complete the I-9.
Complete the On-campus Employment Form here. This form will also serve as your request for the letters from the OISVS that the social security office requires for your SSN application.
Upon receiving the notification email from the OISVS, pick up the social security letters.
Bring the second letter to your hiring manager to complete. This is your employment offer letter.
Make an appointment with the ....
The OISVS may be able to offer you transportation at the following times: M, W F between
Prepare the paper SSN application, available to print here
Note: Allow at least 10 days after your entry into the U.S. before applying for your SSN card. Your hiring supervisor will need to sign one of the letters.
Bring the following documents...
Check your mail for the SSN letter with your SSN card
Report your social security number to the Human Resources office and in your Glacier account when you receive it.
ACU students must report a SSN by the beginning of November for ACU to submit it to the government for tax purposes.
For students who will be paid by Chartwells or the ACU Bookstore:
First, bring your passport and I-20 to their employment office and request an official offer letter or email from them to use for the social security application.
Complete the on-campus employment verification form, which will also serve as your request for the OISVS SSN letter.
Upon notification, pick up the social security letters from the OISVS to take to the Social Security office to apply for your Social Security Number (SSN)
Note: Allow at least 10 days after your entry into the U.S. before applying for your SSN card. Your hiring supervisor will need to sign one of the letters.
Report your social security number to the employment office of your employer.
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Address: 1202 ES 11th Street, Abilene, TX
Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wed: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Phone: 1-877-607-9525
If you need a ride to the Social Security office, our OISVS team may be able to help! Simply fill out the Transportation Request Form.
Please note: all requests must be submitted at least 48 hours in advance, and transportation is provided based on staff availability.