How to get a Social Security Number

You qualify for a social security number if:
you have been offered a job on campus.
you have been authorized to work off campus through Curricular Practical Training. You should have already been offered a job in order to apply for a social security number.
you have graduated and participating in post completion Optional Practical Training.

Social Security numbers will not be issued for any other reasons, according to the new regulations enforced by the Social Security Administration. To open a bank account and other transactions you may apply for a Tax Identification Number (TIN). The Internal Revenue Service (IRS), not the Social Security Administration, assigns a TIN. They are issued to certain nonresident and resident migrants, their spouses, and dependents. The TIN is only available to individuals who cannot get a Social Security Number (SSN). It is a 9-digit number, beginning with the number "9", formatted like an SSN (NNN-NN- NNN). To apply for a TIN you will need a Form W-7. (Forms are available at the International Student Office)

Once a job offer has been extended, a student should bring proof of the job offer to the International Student Office. The International Student Office will issue necessary document that must be presented to the Social Security Administration. In addition the student should take the following documents:
I-20 (page 3 of the I-20 is the employment page; this contains your work information and constitutes your authorization)
I-94
Valid Passport
Visa
Social Security Application (will be provided at the SSA office)

The Salt Lake City Social Security Administration office is located at:
202 WEST 400 SOUTH
SALT LAKE CITY , UT 84101
Tel. (800) 772-1213
(801) 524-4115
TTY: (801) 524-5047
Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9AM to 4PM

If you have any other questions, call the International Student Office at (801) 524-8175.

International Student Office
95 North 300 West Salt Lake City, UT 84101-3500