The Internal Revenue Service (US federal taxation agency) requires employers to report wages using the Social Security Number (SSN). This is a unique number assigned to individuals through an application process.
If you will be receiving payment (as in the case of University employment) for any type of work in the U.S., you must obtain a valid SSN from the U.S. Social Security Administration Office. There are two local offices near campus where you can apply. You will receive further information about this process at the J-1 Scholar or Intern Orientation after you arrive. The International Student and Scholar Center (ISSC) will give you a letter verifying your visa status and your job offer to use with the Social Security Number application.
Scholars who are paid by a source other than UMass Dartmouth (most often in their home countries) will not need to apply for a Social Security Number. They will need to check in with their sponsoring department and with Human Resources.
Important
The International Student Center recommends that you wait a minimum of 15 days after your arrival in the United States before you apply for a Social Security Number. This will give enough time for the information collected by Customs and Border Patrol when you entered the country to reach the Social Security Office computer system.
To apply for a Social Security Number, you need to complete a Social Security Application (you can get it from the Social Security office or download here) and bring it to the Social Security Office along with your letter from the ISSC and the following documents:
Passport with J-1 Scholar or Intern visa
SEVIS DS 2019
Valid I-94
Be sure to have a valid local address on your application. NOTE: After you receive your Social Security Number, you are eligible to work on campus; however, Social Security Numbers DO NOT authorize off-campus employment.
Family members traveling with you may be allowed to work in the US, such as those in J-2 status. Permission to work must be given by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services of the Department of Homeland Security. Please consult the ISSC for help with applying for employment authorization.
Updated 8/2/2012
