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Week 3 (Day 15-21): "Start legal identity setup"
Learn SSN eligibility for your situation (don't blindly apply)
The Social Security Number is sacred in America, but you can't just get one. You need a job offer or work authorization first. F-1 students need an on-campus job offer. If a bank or DMV asks for an SSN and you don't have one, go to the Social Security office and request a 'Letter of Ineligibility', it's your proof that you're not eligible yet.
An SSN is a nine-digit number used for taxes and work. You should not apply unless you really need one.
- You can only get an SSN if you have a job offer or special permission to work from the government.
- If you are an F-1 Student then you must have a job offer letter from your school before you can apply. You cannot get an SSN just for being a student.
- Sometimes a bank or the DMV will ask for an SSN. If you are not allowed to have one, go to the Social Security office anyway. Ask them for a "Letter of Ineligibility" (also called a Denial Letter). This letter tells the bank or the DMV that you are not allowed to have an SSN yet. They will then use other ways to identify you.
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