Social Security Cards

Applying for a Social Security Number

You need to obtain a letter from your employer. Start with this sample letter (DOCX).

Bring your employment letter to ISSS and express your interest in applying for a Social Security number. Your employment letter will need to be co-signed by an immigration advisor.

Visiting the Social Security Office

Appointments are required prior to visiting a Social Security office to apply for your SSN.

Please visit the Social Security office locator to find locations and schedule appointments. DeKalb does not have a Social Security office. Elgin is the closest and most familiar with NIU.

Before you go, you will need to gather the following paperwork:

• Passport and copy
• Original I-20 or DS-2019 and copy
• Printed copy of I-94
• Employment letter from your employer (original copy only) co-signed by an ISSS advisor
• Social Security Card Application (PDF)

When you visit the Social Security office, you will need to bring originals and paper copies of the documents noted above. The Social Security representative will want to see the originals, but will then keep copies for their records. Other points to note:

• Make copies of your documents in advance. The Social Security office will not have a copier available.
• Any questions regarding the Social Security application should be directed to the representative at your appointment.
• The processing for a Social Security card takes anywhere from two weeks to a month.
• The address listed on your Social Security application is where your SSN card will be sent.

When you receive your SSN please ensure that you update the following offices:

• Registration and Records, 815-753-0681
• Human Resource Services, 815-753-6000 (if employed on campus)
• Your local bank