Applying for your Social Security Card

Step 1 – Gather Your Documents

  • Print your I-94 Card (Click on “Get Most Recent I-94” at the top of the page)
  • Print your Participation Letter (on your au pair portal)
  • Complete the Social Security Card Application
    • In box 5 for citizenship information, check off “Legal Alien Allowed To Work”.
    • If there are any questions you are unsure about, leave them blank and ask at your appointment.
    • Be sure to fill out the application listing your name EXACTLY as it is shown on your visa. If you have more than one first or last name, it could be listed differently than how you would think.
  • Take the following documents with you to the SS Office:
    • passport/visa
    • DS-2019
    • participation letter
    • I-94 card
    • completed SS application form

Step 2 – Go to the Social Security Office

After you have been in the U.S. for at least 4 business days, you may go to your local Social Security Office. Again, please allow 4 BUSINESS days after your arrival before attempting to apply for the SOCIAL SECURITY card. Social Security has resumed walk-in service at all locations. If you go to a Social Security Office and are told an appointment is still required, please let your counselor know.

  • Go to the Social Security Office Locator to find an office near you. Social Security Offices tend to be busiest early in the month, early in the week, and early in the day. Avoiding those times should reduce your wait time.

Step 3 – Receive SS Card in the Mail

  • Once you have your social security card, protect this important private information.Keep your card at home unless you are going somewhere that you know you will need it.
  • Do not share this number with anyone unless it’s for an official purpose or service that you have contacted (such as with your host family, the bank, DMV, or tax preparer).
  • Beware of anyone who calls you on the phone asking for this number. Do not share any personal information with someone calling you, even if the caller ID looks like it is a business you know.  There are many scams that involve calling you and acting like a business you know to steal your personal information and money.