Getting Your SSN and ITIN

An SSN is a nine-digit number required for employment, taxes, and building credit in the United States.

Who Can Get One

• U.S. citizens
• Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
• Holders of work visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, and others)
• Individuals with an EAD
• Individuals granted asylum or refugee status

How to Apply

Visit your nearest Social Security Administration (SSA) office with a completed Form SS-5, your passport, and a document authorizing you to work. Your card will be mailed to you within 2–4 weeks.

An ITIN is a tax identification number for individuals who are not eligible for an SSN but are required to file a tax return.

Who Needs One

• Individuals without work authorization who have tax obligations
• Spouses filing a joint tax return
• Dependents listed on a tax return

How to Obtain One

Submit Form W-7 to the IRS along with your tax return. Include your original passport or a notarized copy. An ITIN is issued within 7–11 weeks.

Important

An ITIN does not grant work authorization and does not affect immigration status. However, filing taxes can be beneficial for future immigration cases (as evidence of presence and good moral character).

It is important to understand the differences between these two numbers.

Comparison

• SSN — for individuals authorized to work; can begin with any digit
• ITIN — for tax purposes only; begins with 9, with the second group of digits ranging from 70–88

What an SSN Allows You to Do

• Work legally
• Build a credit history
• Receive Social Security benefits
• Open bank accounts

What an ITIN Allows You to Do

• File a tax return
• Open bank accounts (at select banks)
• Obtain an ITIN mortgage (at select lending institutions)