Applying for a Social Security Card / Rejection Letter

If you apply for a driver's license or get a job, you will have to apply for a social security number and receive a social security card. SSN is used for employer payroll, Internal Revenue Service (federal U.S. taxes), driver's licenses, and building a credit history.

If you are applying for a driver's license, but do not have a social security number and have never had a job on campus, you will have to apply for and officially be denied a social security number. If you get a job on campus at a later time, you will have to re-apply for a social security number.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Present in the U.S. for at least 14 days
  • Registered for the current semester in SEVIS

Follow these instructions to receive a Social Security Rejection Letter (for driver's license):

Step 1: Gather all documents listed below

  • A letter from the International Office verifying your enrollment status (Enrollment Verification Form)
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • Form I-20
  • Form I-94: Can request an electronic form here: cbp.gov/i94
  • Social Security application

Step 2: Go to the Social Security Office. Note: Keep your rejection letter in a safe place so you have it for your Driver’s Permit application.

Follow these instructions to receive a Social Security Number (for Employment):

You will need a social security number to receive pay for your employment. You will use the same social security number for your entire stay in the U.S. You only need to apply for a social security number one time, when you receive your first job offer. If you get a new or different job, you will use the same social security number. There is no fee for the social security application. Allow plenty of time when you plan your trip to the Social Security office, as there may be a long wait time.

Step 1: Gather all documents listed below

  • An Employment Verification Letter (The sample template is prepared for a Kutztown University on campus job) should be completed with all the following information:
    • name of the student employee
    • job description
    • anticipated or actual employment start date no more than 30 days in the future at the time of application for an SSN;
    • number of hours the student is expected to work;
    • employer identity number (EIN) (The KU EIN number is provided on the template letter. If you are hired by a an on-campus commercial business, the EIN number of the business must be provided).
    • employer contact information, including the telephone number and name of the immediate supervisor;
    • verification of the employment status (i.e. student has been hired);
    • original signature with signatory’s title and date.
  • A letter from the International Office verifying your enrollment status (Enrollment Verification Form)
  • Passport
  • Visa
  • Form I-20
  • Form I-94: Can request an electronic form here: cbp.gov/i94
  • Social Security application

Step 2: Go to the Social Security Office. You may be eligible to schedule an appointment before visiting your local Social Security office or card center. Plan at least 3 hours if you don't make an appointment. You will receive your card in the mail. Most cards arrive 14 days after the Social Security Office approves your application. You will know at your appointment if you've been approved, or if they need additional documentation. Note: Once received, keep your Social Security card in a safe place once received. 

Allentown Location: 41 N. 4th Street Allentown, PA 18102
Reading Location: 201 Penn Street, Suite 200 Reading, PA 19601