Applying for a SSN

[Rose416 1]

Hello,

I am in the first stage of putting together my AOS package and would like to apply for my SSN.

I have read and re-read specific forums on here and am getting a little confused.

My concerns are with getting a SSN with my new name on it. I am assuming that I need my marriage certificate to show proof of my new legal name, but in LA county it takes 10-15 days to receive it. By then, I will have less than 60 days remaining on my I-94.

Should I just apply for my SSN now and change my name later?

Thank you!!!

I don't know what I would do without VisaJourney

[Nik+Heather 121]

It is my advice that you get your SSN in your maiden name first. That's what's in the SAVE database from your entry on the K-1, and that's what they'll check when issuing it. If you try to do two things at once, it's more likely to get messed up and be a hassle.

Then, when you get the certificate, go back with your maiden-name card, and the certificate to get your name changed. By this time, you're right, they'll probably give you some trouble due to the expiration of your I-94, but you can just wait until your EAD or GC comes in the mail and change it then. At least then if you have the SSN you can get on your husband's insurance, open bank accounts etc.

Edited August 23, 2010 by Nik+Heather

[Kimbear 53]

if you want your ssn in your married name, some places let you pick up the marriage certificates before the 3 week time frame, my local office had them ready within 3 days and they originally told me 3 weeks. depends on how busy they are. my ssn office was able to process my ssn in my married name with just my application, passport, and marriage licence, however it depends on the knowledge of the person working.

if your this close to the i-94 expiring, avoid the possible hassle and just get it for now in your maiden name to be on the safe side. otherwise you wont be able to get it until you get your green card. if your want your green card in married name do all the paperwork in your married name, otherwise you'll have to shell out another 300$ for a new green card. as for husbands bank accounts etc, as a canadian all you need is your passport and your marriage licence for most banks.

Edited August 23, 2010 by Kimbear

[Rose416 1]

Thank you for your advice (:

Unfortunately, LA County takes longer to process marriage certificates. "Expedited" takes 10-15 days, while the normal delivery time is around 5 weeks! Crazy! I don't think I can pick it up from the office either.

I think I'll go into my local SSN office after my 2 week anniversary of my POE and apply with my maiden name. When my certificate arrives, I'll do a name change. YAY paperwork!!!