Applying for Your Social Security Card

Au pairs should wait until they have been in the U.S. for at least 4 days before completing the online application for a social security number.

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)
  • passport/visa
  • DS-2019
  • country driver’s license
  • international driver’s permit or certified translation

Step 2 – Complete the online Social Security number application.

  • Online Social Security Application
  • 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.
  • If asked for citizenship information, select “Legal Alien Allowed To Work”.

Step 3 – Make an appointment to go in person to a Social Security office (within 45 days of your online application).

  • Go to the Social Security Office Locator to find an office near you.
  • Call the phone number of your local office during their business hours listed or call 1-800-772-1213 (Mon-Fri, 8 am-7 pm).

Step 4 – Go in person to your social security appointment.

  • Bring all of the documents listed in step one.

Step 5 – Receive the card in the mail (usually within 2 weeks).

  • When your card comes in the mail, save the envelope and everything inside. (Very important for getting your MD driver’s license.)
  • 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.

Information on Opening a Bank Account can found here.