How to find out if my noncitizen spouse has a social security number?

[bananite 67]

Hi all,

So we're currently filling out the DS-260, and when it asked if he has an Social security number, he said "I'm not sure".

It's because, when he was 30, he was once employed by and paid by a US university (University of Michigan), though he was working at an international laboratory in Europe and never set foot on US soil (except for a vacation when he was 15). He no longer has the papers that he was sent by the university, and he doesn't recall if an SSN was involved. Is it possible that he could have been issued a social security number for this purpose? Or is it just for residents? I really don't even know where to look.

So, we are currently unsure if he has a social security number. Is there a way for us to find out?

Thanks all!

[USAbound7374 0]

It does not metter really. Once approved, he can be issued a real number. But you can call the Soc Sec Admin office and see if they can help.

[Pheebs1201 269]

I believe when he applies for one it will be flagged up if one already exists and he will just be re-issued the same one. I already have one from previously working on a J1 visa and VJ members have informed me that this will be my SSN for life.

[dhlunar 25]

More then likely if he has one then it is flagged as only "valid for work authorization with DHS (Department of Homeland Security) approval."

Since you mentioned that he didn't step foot in the US during the university employment, is it possible he was issued an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from the IRS? An ITIN is used instead of a social security number on taxes for someone that needs to file taxes but doesn't qualify for a SSN.