US citizens, people who have a green card, and temporary workers or students need to have a Social Security Number. Even those who will stay in the United States for a few monthsThis is the case for exchange programs that combine studying the language with working in the country (as a baby-sitter). Or even for university students who wish to have some kind of internship or paid activity on their college campus.
Who can have it?
In conclusion, who can and should have the SSN are citizens who exercise some paid activity in the countryIt is also worth remembering that tourists or tourists from other countries are not only tourists, but also people of other nationalities. It is also worth remembering that tourists or people who have a visa on which they are not allowed to work cannot apply for the SSN. This is because the Social Security Number is basically used to report an individual's salary to the government. It also guarantees the worker's social security benefits.
For those who wish to do business and invest in the United StatesIf you do not meet the qualifications for a Social Security Number, you can apply for an ITIN Number, issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
What is ITIN?
The ITIN Number serves as a legal document that allows its holder to receive payments in the US that need to be declared to the US tax authorities. As such, it can be issued to anyone regardless of their immigration status, as it is through this number that the Internal Revenue Service processes taxes and refunds for those without an SSN.
What is the Social Security Number for?
As already mentioned, it is through this number that the inhabitants of the United States have their rights guaranteed (social security, for example). In addition, it is the document used to identify citizens in day-to-day bureaucratic matters, as income tax payment, as well as to control bank accounts, credit cards and credit score.
Credit Score
The Credit Score is a score that defines the reliability index of a person in relation to the payment of his debts. It is through this score that a person can get credit for investments in the country, and the more debts are made and paid on time, the higher this score.
For US citizens and green card holders the credit score is done using the SSN. In the case of investors with tourist visas and other categories that do not exercise a paid activity, it can be issued with the ITIN Number.
Using SSN
Like the Brazilian CPF, the SSN is not transferable. This way, if you take it out today to live temporarily in the US and come back years later, it is still valid, there is no need to issue it again.
Also, it is important to stress that when applying for a position with a company you do not have to provide your SSN number, you just have to have it. Nor should you give your nine-digit combination over the phone. Even for banking transactions, only the last 4 digits are required. Take good care of your SSN card is not to give it away improperly.
How to apply for a Social Security Number?
The process of getting a Social Security Number is a somewhat lengthy bureaucracy. So it should be applied for as soon as possible. For this, you need to fill out an online form at Social Security site. After this process happens the in-person step at the local Social Security Administration office.
It is at this point that the required supporting documents are brought. Among them is the authorization to exercise a paid activity. After that, the SSN arrives at the address that was provided by the citizen at the beginning of the process.
However, if you are still in Brazil, you can already advance the process of getting this document. All you need to do is fill out the application together with the visa. This way, you do not have to appear in person at the Social Security office in the United States.
It is important to emphasize that, although it is an official document, the SSN is not valid as a universal identification document. Since it does not contain a photograph or fingerprints.
Using SSN
Like the Brazilian CPF, the SSN is not transferable. This way, if you take it out today to live temporarily in the US and come back years later, it is still valid, there is no need to issue it again.
Also, it is important to stress that when applying for a position with a company you do not have to provide your SSN number, you just have to have it. Nor should you give your nine-digit combination over the phone. Even for banking transactions, only the last 4 digits are required. Take good care of your SSN card is not to give it away improperly.
The Florida Lounge
To assist you with gathering documentation for Social Security Number removal, finding the right school for your child and the dream home for your family, The Florida Lounge provides a 360° consultation, which provides information and accompanies every step of your move to Florida. Contact our relationship agents through the communication channels by clicking on the banner below.
Did you like the article? Keep an eye on our blog! Wanting to invest in Florida real estate? See the list of houses for sale in florida that we have selected for you!
