The Social Security Number (SSN) or the Tax ID Number (TIN) is required for getting a job and paying taxes in the U.S. and, in some cases, to apply for certain financial services. Matters regarding SSN and Tax ID numbers can sometimes be a bit confusing, and sometimes you do not always know where to turn. If you have questions about them, please contact the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO) or the graduate school. They will have most of the information on hand for you.

Even if you are an international student, often you will likely be filling out a lot of paperwork that is used primarily by U.S. citizens. Therefore, you may often receive or face the question: "And what is your SSN or TIN?". It is helpful to be prepared, so you know what to do even if you have neither!

Fortunately, in most places, this is just a formality. Most of the time, you can still order a product, book a reservation or accomplish whatever it was you wanted to accomplish without one of these numbers. Simply tell them you are an international student on a student visa, and since you are not working, you do not have this number.

In the case you get an SSN or a TIN, it is important to keep these numbers safe and only share them in particular cases and through protected means. Access to these numbers by unscrupulous people could cause identity theft. For example, with these numbers, people could open credit and bank accounts and commit fraud under your name.

If you have any formal questions about getting or keeping an SSN or a TIN, please contact ISSO or the graduate school.