I-485: SSN needed Immediately?

[kamas 2]

What is the point of getting a Social Security Number?

If we are doing the I-485 package, do we need to get the SSN now? Or can we get it at any time? Will getting it now or later affect anything about our forms or the process?

[Harsh_77 718]

What is the point of getting a Social Security Number?

If we are doing the I-485 package, do we need to get the SSN now? Or can we get it at any time? Will getting it now or later affect anything about our forms or the process?

Point of SSN is for every individual to have a unique number by used to identify them when they pay taxes.

You do not require SSN to submit i-485, it will not affect your processing. You can have SSN anytime you want, mostly ppl get it when they start working.

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

You can get it at any time, but it is easier to open bank accounts/get joint accounts etc with a SSN. I-485 does not require a SSN.

Did you arrive on a K-1 visa?

[Dave&Roza 748]

What is the point of getting a Social Security Number?

If we are doing the I-485 package, do we need to get the SSN now? Or can we get it at any time? Will getting it now or later affect anything about our forms or the process?

You will find that without the SSN it is harder to get a bank account, get added to your spouse's employer's benefits, get a credit card, get any type of financial account, get health insurance, etc. You are not required to have a SSN for any of these unless they pay interest or any other type of income reportable to the IRS. However, most banks, employers, and financial instutions think they are required to ask for a SSN and by not having one you will have to find those that are properly trained in the requirments of the SSN. The SSN has become a pseudo national ID number. So it is best to get the SSN before the I-94 expires using the eligibility of a K-1 visa holder. All of those items listed that you cannot get will be required for you at the removal of conditions (ROC) phase, so you might want to look at those requirements as the proof for ROC is to span the entire length of marriage.

Good luck,

Dave

[vbtwo 54]

If you don't get it right away (at least 2 weeks before I-94 expires), then you have to wait until you get your green card. You will not be able to work until you get a SSN, even if you get an EAD and they will not issue a SSN with an expired I-94, even if you have an EAD until you actually receive your green card.

Best to apply for it right away, it's a free and pretty painless process.