Social Security Number Information

A Social Security Number (SSN) is needed for employment in the United States. Students and scholars are eligible to apply if they are employed in the US or have been offered a job. If you are paid in the US, you must have a SSN to file a US income tax return. Students who do not have a job will not be eligible to apply for a SSN. Please refer to the Social Security Administration for more information about International Students and Social Security Numbers.

Application Process

You must apply at the Social Security Administration Office in Cheyenne, WY. You may not apply until one month after the beginning of the semester for a student, or until one month after your arrival for a visiting scholar. You should receive your social security number in the mail within 4-6 weeks after you apply.

 

Step 1: Collect Employer Letter

Employer Letter from your department/employer on department letterhead. On-campus employers must use our form letter. Letter should be completed by the department you are working for, not Human Resources.

 

Step 2: Complete the Social Security Application

Fill out the Social Security website online form. Make sure to print the confirmation page, or write down your confirmation number, after completing the online form. You will need this number when you go to Cheyenne to apply in person for the SSN. After completing the SSN application, you will need to make an appointment to apply for your SSN.

 

Step 3: Submit Survey to Request ISS Letter

Fill out the ISS Social Security Number request survey. You will attach the Employer Letter to the letter request from ISS. The ISS SSN request survey must be submitted at least ONE WEEK before your trip to the Social Security Administration. ISS WILL NOT CREATE LETTERS THE DAY OF YOUR TRIP!

 

Step 4: Bring required documents with you on the SSN trip

After you receive the ISS letter, you will travel to the Social Security Administration in Cheyenne to attend an appointment for your Social Security Number. You must bring all of your documents:

  • ISS letter
  • Employer Letter from your department/employer on department letterhead.
  • I-20 or DS-2019
  • Passport and Visa
  • I-94 printout

 

You can view the operating hours for the Social Security Administration on their website:

Social Security Administration
3001 E. Pershing Boulevard, Suite 140
Cheyenne, WY 82001
Phone: (800) 772-1213

Disclaimer: All documents, information, and advice provided by ISS staff is given based on details provided to ISS and can vary depending on specific circumstances and laws in effect at the time it is given. Advice or information given to one person should not be considered accurate for others. ISS staff is not responsible for errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information.