Can I apply for SSN *AFTER* we get married?

[Wren and Fox 0]

I am entering the US on March 4. We are getting married on the 9th (we chose the 9th because it's a special date for us).

I will have only been in the US for 5 days at that point and I read it's recommended to wait 2 weeks before getting your SSN to make sure you're in the system. Is it okay for me to get get married before I get my SSN? I will also be changing my name when I marry, so I like the idea of just applying for the SSN once and not having to go back and change my name.

Someone on Facebook said once I get married the K-1/I-94 is essentially "expired" as I am no longer a fiance, but now married, so they can refuse to give me the SSN until I have the EAD.

[tamcloud 92]

My (now) spouse entered on the 14th, we married on the 18th...filed for her SSN on the 19th. She received her card on the 25th. Unless there's a delay with your I-94 being entered into the system (or some other issue), you shouldn't have a problem. She wasn't asked if she was already married.

Your K-1 is invalidated upon entry to the U.S., but your I-94 is not. There is an expiration date for your I-94, and you should apply for your SSN at least 2 weeks before that date.

Edited February 27, 2016 by tamcloud

[NikLR 13,232]

Most often it is easier to apply for the SSN in visa name not married name (if you are changing your name.) So do not mention you're married when applying for the SSN. Why? Because the info they have in their system is under your maiden, not married, name.

However if you don't want to go through the hassle of changing the SSN, then wait until you get your EAD in your married name and get your SSN at that time.

ALSO

~~moved to SSN from K1 progress reports~~

[Wren and Fox 0]

Thank you for the help!