recommended update information for SSN application

[dburnt 59]

Hi,

I just applied for my Social Security Number (K1) and would like to suggest the following information for inclusion in the guide:

1. Be prepared to spend a long time waiting - especially if you are in an area with a lot of immigrants. I waited 2 1/2 hours in line in Orlando.

2. More documentation than is listed (i.e. passport only) may be required.

- birth certificate (with translation if needed)

- any documentation to explain why your name at birth is not your current name. This would include marriage certificate, but also divorce certificates or legal name change documents. (I needed my divorce decree)

3. Be sure that your mailbox (especially if it is a super/group mailbox) has your name on it. The post office will not leave the card in your mailbox if your name is not on it (this includes (apparently) new spouses and children). If the name is not on the mailbox, they are instructed to leave/send you a notice that your card is ready for pick-up, and you will have to go back into the office to pick it up in person.

Just thought this might help.

I was also in the wrong office initially...coming from a country that doesn't actually issue "cards" for their social, only a number, "Card Processing Services" wasn't clear to me. Check to be sure you are going to the right service office (our area has 4 of them, but only one processes new SSN applications).

I leave it for a moderator to determine best location for this post.

Edited September 8, 2014 by dburnt

[Kathryn41 3,205]

Good information, dburnt. I've moved this to the Social Security Numbers forum. I'll see about getting it pinned so it remains visible at the top of the thread.

[d3adc0d3 186]

I feel the need to add to this, if you all don't mind.

It is highly recommended that anyone who is coming in on a K1 visa to apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) before their marriage.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) Agents are easily confused by the K1 Visa, and may (wrongfully) assume that now that you're married, you're no longer a K1 visa holder, and no longer qualify for a SSN. It is best to apply for a SSN in the name which is on the immigrant's I-94 and passport to avoid this potential headache and several trips back & forth.

With the I-94 going electronic, there is also no need to wait anymore. Their systems are updated instantly the moment of Point of Entry (PoE).

When we applied for my husband's SSN we waited 4 weeks to hear from them about the issuance, and got a letter in the mail informing us it is being mailed and will arrive within 2 weeks, so I would also advise people to anticipate a 4-6 week wait, until it's in your hands.

[Darnell 8,478]

http://www.visajourney.com/forums/topic/405546-ssn-howto/