Applying for A Social Security Number

By Greg Pierce

Having a social security number is vital not only because of the many benefits that one can
get from it. So if you are not familiar with the process of applying for one, then read through.
First, a social security number, assigned by a government body known as Social Security
Administration, is unique to all people.

Having a social security number is very important because this number will be used as an
identification. Schools, US agencies and business establishments use this number to
identify someone. One has to have this number if they are working legitimately and are
paying taxes. This number has 9 digits and 3 sections.

The first three digits are indications of which state the citizen was residing when he or she
applied for the ssn. The next two digits are there so that the numbers can be break into
blocks, thus, making it easier to remember. The last four are the straight numerical
progression of allotted numbers. Today, SSN cards can come in three types.

The first card is the regular one which has been commonly issued since 1935. Aside from
displaying the name of the person and his SSN, it allows the person to work without
restrictions. This is being issued to United States citizens and permanent resident aliens or
green card holders. The latter refers to United States immigrants who have been granted
immigration benefits.

The second type of SSN card bears the phrase "NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT". This
card is issued by the Social Security Agency for people from another country who are legally
admitted to the United States without a U. S. citizenship and work authorization from the
immigration services. They need an SSN because the federal, state, or local law requires
them to have one in order to avail of some benefits or services.

The third type of SSN was issued in 1992. This is issued to individuals staying in the US in a
temporary basis but have the authorization to work from the immigratio service. The card
will bear the phrase "Valid for Work Only with Ins Authorization". When applying for a social
security number, secure Form SS-5 which can be obtained fromt he Social Security Agency.
Make sure that you read all the guidelines carefully and then make sure that you pass all the
necessary requirements for the application. Others can just mail these documents while
those who just turned 18 are required to make a personal appearance when they apply.

If, however, you have no permission to work in the United States, you are required to
provide a letter with the letterhead of the government agency requiring you to get a number.
The contents of the letter would be your name as applicant, the law which is requiring you to
apply, and a statement that you have met all the requirements in order to acquire a Social
Security number.

Whether you're an employer wishing to check on a job applicant, a landlord who wants to make
sure you're not renting out your space to a criminal or a loaner trying to make sure a loan
applicant isn't going to take off with your money, you can use a free ssn search to check for
these people's vital information. With free ssn trace you will have access to peoples records so
that you can make an informed decision in you hiring process.