Getting a Social Security Number & Name Change

[sjs87 27]

Hello all,

Just a couple questions about getting a SSN and name change.

1. Does a SSN/card become automatically issued along with the Green Card?

2. If a SSN is not automatically issued with a Green Card, when do you apply for it? Do you apply before the Green Card or after?

3. I know you get a work permit at some point, I believe before the Green Card. Does this work permit have anything to do w/ a SSN?

4. At what point do I file papers for name change? I will be taking my husband-to-be's name.

I am working with a lawyer, so I supposed I could be directing these questions to her, but sometimes it's nice to ask my 'peers' and fellow VJers.

As always, thanks for your insight!

[TBoneTX 45,329]

*** Thread moved from AOS/Family-Based main forum to the Social Security Numbers subforum. ***

[Lainie B 465]

Hello all,

Just a couple questions about getting a SSN and name change.

1. Does a SSN/card become automatically issued along with the Green Card?

2. If a SSN is not automatically issued with a Green Card, when do you apply for it? Do you apply before the Green Card or after?

3. I know you get a work permit at some point, I believe before the Green Card. Does this work permit have anything to do w/ a SSN?

4. At what point do I file papers for name change? I will be taking my husband-to-be's name.

I am working with a lawyer, so I supposed I could be directing these questions to her, but sometimes it's nice to ask my 'peers' and fellow VJers.

As always, thanks for your insight!

1. No you must apply for it at the social security office

2. You can apply for it a) within your first 90 days of arrival on a k-1, b) when you get the EAD, or c) when you get the green card

3. You can apply for the work permit (form I-765) when you apply for the green card (form I-485). Generally the work permit will take around 60 days to arrive. It will allow you to work while waiting for the green card, which can take up to a year. It is free to apply for the work permit when you apply with the green card application. You should also file for advance parole (I-131) at the same time. That way you get a combo card (work permit/AP) which will allow you to both work and travel outside the US while you are waiting for the green card.

4. There are no papers to file for a name change when you are simply taking your husband's name. You just use the marriage certificate as proof of name change. There is nothing else you have to do.

[Stevephoto 230]

I agree with Lainie, but we very recently ran into an unpleasant issue with the EAD/SSN name not matching. Everything worked out in the end but there was a sleepless night or two involved. Here is the thread:

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/468691-name-change-after-marriage-different-thread/

One additional comment on Lainie's point number 3: There is no additional fee if you file the I-765 and I-131 along with the I-485. There are extra fees if you file them separately.