Find out when you will need a Social Security number as an F-1 or J-1 student, and what to do if you don’t have one.
Social Security numbers are not general purpose ID’s. If a business representative or service provider asks you for a Social Security number, carefully consider if it's necessary.
You should not need a Social Security number to:
The only exceptions should be business providers who require a credit check before doing business with you or opening an online account for you.
If you are not working in the U.S., you also do not need a Social Security number to submit tax forms (e.g. Form 8843) to the Internal Revenue Service, which is the U.S. government’s tax agency. For this purpose, you should apply instead for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). For information on how to do this at UB, please contact Human Resources' International Services.
In order to work in the U.S., you will need a Social Security Number. To obtain one, you will have to document that you are eligible to work in the U.S. Please read here to find out how to apply for a Social Security Card.
UB's Office of the Registrar must get your correct identifying number to file certain information returns with the IRS. For students, this will be your social security number (SSN) or, if you are not eligible to obtain an SSN, your individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN).
After receiving your SSN, you must report it to the University using Form W-9(S). This form is also used for students who need to provide or correct their SSN or ITIN on file.
Contact the Office of the Registrar for assistance.
Identity theft is a problem in the U.S. We recommend you do not your Social Security Card or Number with you. Instead, memorize the number and keep the card in a safe place at home.
For more information on protecting yourself, see the Social Security Administration's brochure.
You can look up the phone number for your local Social Security office by accessing their office locator.