Hi everyone! In this week’s article, I will discuss the importance of one’s Social Security Number, or “SSN” and give you some information about when it is necessary to update the Social Security Administration regarding any change in one’s immigration status.
A social security number (“SSN”) is a 9-digit number that the U.S. government issues to all U.S. citizens and eligible U.S. residents who apply for one (such as those with green cards). The government uses this number to keep track of your lifetime earnings and the number of years worked. As you work in the country, you will be paying Social Security taxes. When you retire or if you ever need to receive Social Security disability income, the government uses your information to calculate how much your monthly and annual benefits will be.
A Social Security card is required if you are lawfully working in the United States. As mentioned, your assigned SSN will keep track of your work credits for later retirement. Besides taxes and benefits, a SSN is also necessary when you apply for credit, open a bank account (since 1970, Banks are required to obtain a customer's SSN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), buy a home or a car, apply for a Federal loan, public assistance, and other reasons.
There are 3 main reasons when you must Update your SSN: (1) If you are a victim of Identity Theft, (2) you are a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card) and you need to change some information to coincide with your green card, or (3) you become a U.S. citizen.
For those with green cards, working and paying taxes allows you to obtain credits for Social Security benefits. Generally, permanent residents must put in 40 quarters (or 10 years) of work since they can only earn a maximum of 4 credits per year.
Updating Your Social Security Card for Those with Green CardsNo! You do not need to update/change your Social Security Card after getting your green card, unless you need to change or correct some information on the card itself. For example, if you changed your name on your new green card, then yes, you need to get that name changed on you Social Security Card too. Otherwise, you do not need to update or change your Social Security Card just because you just obtained a green card.
Updating Your Social Security Card for Those who have become Naturalized U.S. CitizensYes! Once you become a U.S. citizen, you are required to make changes to your Social Security Card.
To update your SSN and card, visit your nearest Social Security Administration office (or you can do it online), fill out Form SS-5 (Application for Social Security Card), and submit this with supporting evidence of your Identity, age and status.
Well there you go folks: some information about Social Security and Immigration. If you have any questions, or need assistance, please contact my office at (818) 846-5639, or my direct Thai line at (818) 505-4921.
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Disclaimer: The information contained herein have been prepared for informational purposes only and are not to be considered legal advice unless otherwise specified. If you have a specific question regarding your personal case, please contact the Law Offices of Joseph Chitmongran for a full consultation.