SSN Now or Later?

[Amy&Joe 5]

I am hoping someone can help me as I have seen conflicting information about when I should apply for my SSN. Yesterday was my POE and now I am unsure if I should be applying now or if I wait and do it at the same time as my AOS. Also, is it correct I to do my request for advanced parole at the same time as I submit my AOS?

Thank you!

[NikLR 13,230]

~~moved to SSN from Canada regional forum. Topic is not regionally specific~%

You can either get it asap, up until you have 2 weeks left on your I-94 or wait until your EAD comes in. Up to you.

For women changing their name, it's best to get it in visa name or wait for the EAD.

[Caryh 5,206]

Some offices are refusing to give a SSN once the K-1 gets married even if they have time left on the I-94. Best to get it early, you can always change the name on it later if your name changes with marriage.

Yes apply for the AP and EAD when you file to AOS. They don't cost anything extra and it can take a while before a green card is issued. The EAD will allow you to work, and the AP will allow you to travel out of the country, while you're waiting.

[LionessDeon 2,060]

1. Now

2. Yes you are correct.

[Amy&Joe 5]

Thanks everyone! Can I do it now or is it best to wait a few days after POE?

[Caryh 5,206]

Thanks everyone! Can I do it now or is it best to wait a few days after POE?

The I-94's are now electronic. As soon as you can obtain one online, you should be good to go in applying for the SSN.

[Amy&Joe 5]

Thanks Caryh - silly question but where online do I get the I-94?

Thank you again for all of your help!!

[ddtenor2 80]

I'd recommend getting your SSN before you apply for AOS. You'll want to start collecting evidence of a bona fide marriage as soon as you can--including commingling of finances. My bank would not allow me to add my spouse to my bank accounts without an SSN. It is also helpful in applying for a driver's license, credit card, etc. No harm in applying now, as long as when the non-USC answered questions 43a and 43b on DS-230 he/she did not request that an SSN be assigned and a card issued. If a card was requested, wait about a month to see whether one arrives. The customs officials at POE don't always forward the request to the Social Security Administration, but in the event they did, you don't want to end up with 2 SSNs.

[ddtenor2 80]

You can request your I-94 at https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/consent.html

[goolia 54]

This really just echo's what everyone else has already said. If you're changing your name, best to go in and do it as soon as you can print off your I-94. It will save you an incredible amount of hassle later on (as a lot of SS office workers are unaware of the intricacies of the k1 visa). Besides, it doesn't cost you anything $ wise, so might as well do it now and then go back in after you're married to do the name change.

Same applies for sending in your EAD and AP with your AOS - you don't pay anything extra so it's worth the peace of mind alone.

[Cyberfx1024 7,980]

Get it now asap. It is really easy for a woman to go and change it later to the married name.