What Is a Social Security Number (SSN) and How Do I Get One So I Can Work in the U.S.?

A Social Security number is a unique nine-digit number issued by the U.S. government and primarily used to track income taxes owed by individuals. All citizens, green card holders, and non-citizens who work in the U.S. are required to have a Social Security number. You will need this number when applying for a job, and a Social Security number is also important if you want to build a credit history to apply for loans, credit cards, and rental housing. 

As a refugee, you are legally allowed to work as soon as you arrive in the United States. However, some employers may not know this and may want to see your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or Social Security card before they hire you. This can make it harder to find a job while you wait for your documents to arrive.  

Refugees were previously required to apply for their Social Security number in person at a local Social Security Administration (SSA) office shortly after arriving in the United States.  However, refugees arriving on or after July 6, 2026 will have their Social Security numbers automatically requested as part of the employment authorization application using Form I-765, completed prior to arrival in the U.S.  When the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approves your application, you will receive two documents:  Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as the “USCIS I-766 card” or “work permit”, and in another envelope your Social Security card (the card will have your name and Social Security number on it).  Both documents will be mailed to your local resettlement provider or to your U.S. Tie if you are being resettled through a virtual resettlement program.  Be aware that wait times for work permits can be long. You can check for current wait times using the USCIS processing times tool. 

If you are applying for Permanent Resident Status using Form I-485,  in most cases, USCIS will electronically transmit the data to SSA after approving Form I-485. Upon receiving the data, SSA will automatically assign an original Social Security number or issue a replacement card, as appropriate. This partnership with SSA does not increase the filing fee for Form I-485. 

If you have questions about your documents, contact your local resettlement provider. They can help you understand the process and connect you with other support. 

You must protect your Social Security number. If criminals access it, they could use it to illegally apply for benefits or loans in your name or commit other crimes. Only carry your Social Security card if you need it on that day. Otherwise, keep it at home in a secure place. You should keep any documents that contain your Social Security number in a safe location and safeguard and encrypt any electronic documents that contain your number. Though anyone can ask for your Social Security number, in general, you should only provide it to your employer, a government agency, or a bank if you are applying for a loan, a checking or savings account, or a debit or credit card.