INFORMATION FOR CURRENT STUDENTS

Social Security Number

The SSN is a nine-digit number issued to individuals by the Social Security Administration, an independent U.S. government agency. The SSN primarily serves for tax reporting purposes, but is also commonly used for customer authentication purposes by financial institutions, utility and phone companies. But remember that these services can also be obtained without a SSN, although with inconveniences, such as reduced consumer options, deposit requirements, or having to conduct a transaction in person instead of by internet or phone.

Applying for a Social Security Number

Students with on-campus employment or authorized for off-campus employment must apply for a SNN. F-1 students who do not meet these criteria are not eligible for a SSN. All J-1 students are automatically eligible to apply for a SSN. Note: You must be in the U.S. for at least 10 days before applying. See the date stamped on your I-94 for your exact arrival date.

To obtain a Social Security Number, you must bring the following documents to the Social Security Office (see locations below):

If you are an F-1 student:

With on-campus employment	Authorized for Curricular Practical Training (CPT)	Authorized for Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Valid Passport and I-94 Stamped I-20 Supplement to the SSN Application Application Form SS-5	Valid Passport and I-94 Stamped I-20 I-20 with CPT authorization on 3rd page Application Form SS-5	Valid Passport and I-94 Stamped I-20 I-766/OPT card or I-688B Application Form SS-5

If you are an J-1 student:

Valid Passport and I-94 Stamped DS-2019 Social Security Letter from the OISS Application Form SS-5

There are two Social Security Office locations in the St. Louis area:

• 5669 Delmar Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63112 (closest to campus)
• 1215 Fern Ridge Parkway Creve Coeur, MO 63141

The offices are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You may make an appointment, but it is not required. Visitors without appointments will need to check in electronically near the entrance. You will be served by number. The busiest times are Mondays and the first week of each month. Walk-in visitors will be served more quickly if they avoid visiting the office at these busy times. To print out these instructions and directions, click here.

For more information, you may contact the Social Security Administration through the national toll free number at 1-800-772-1213, Monday-Friday between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. You can also find information specifically for international students at https://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10181.html. If you encounter problems with your application process, contact an International Student Advisor at the OISS.

About Sharing Your Social Security Number

You should be cautious about sharing your SSN, since as it is has become a common target for identity theft. When you are asked for your SSN, find out why it is needed, how it is being used, and consequences for refusing to give it out. The responses may help you decide if you want to disclose it. Be suspicious of unsolicited services. To find out more on identity theft and your SSN visit, http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10064.html.