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Social Security

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Applying for a Social Security Card

A Social Security number (SSN) is used primarily for tax record-keeping purposes and other government benefits for permanent residents.  Employers use the SSN to maintain payroll records and as a form of identification for the I-9 Employment Eligibility Form. Most employers require a Social Security number from their employees. As a result, scholars and F1 and J1 student visa holders are required to apply for a Social Security card as soon as they are employed in the United States. You need to provide proof of submitting your Social Security card application to the Human Resources or Student Employment Office by providing the notice of receipt sent by the Social Security Office after you submit your application during your one-on-one interview.

Applying for a Social Security Card


SCHOLARS
International visitors are required to have a Social Security card if they will be receiving monetary compensation from the College during their stay. They may use their letter of invitation from the College when they apply for the card at the Social Security Office.

STUDENT EMPLOYMENT
International students may apply for a Social Security number if they are authorized to work on campus (J1 and F1 student visa holders are eligible to work on campus for up to 20 hours per week when classes are in session and full time when classes are not in session—i.e., fall/spring breaks and summer/winter breaks) or if they are approved for Curricular Practical Training, Optional Practical Training, or Academic Training. The Social Security card issued to nonresident students may specify that it is “valid only with employment authorization.” Students may use this card number if employment has been properly authorized by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services or the College’ international student adviser.

Documents Required for Your Social Security Card Application

  • SSN application form: name should match exactly as it appears on your passport ID page
  • Completed Employment Authorization Form or authorized letter on Bard College Letterhead
    • J1 student visa holders who receive a stipend from the College as compensation for their services (FLET/FLTA) can use their appointment letter as verification of employment in the United States
  • Valid passport: passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time you apply for an SSN
  • Form I-20 (F1 students) or DS 2019 (J1 students)
  • I-94 arrival record

OISSS Social Security_Employment Verification Form.pdf
  • SSN Instructions

Social Security Application Assistance

IILE Student Ambassadors will be available at specific times throughout the week to advise on the SSN application process and review application materials. Students must have their application materials reviewed by an IILE Student Ambassador before requesting a DSO signature on their Employment Verification form.

Social Security Application Assistance is available on a walk-in basis in Gahagan House at the following times:

Tuesdays: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Thursdays: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
 Fridays: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM