How to Apply for Social Security Number as a J-1 Student 

All J-1 student employment requires the responsible officer (RO) to approve the specific employment in writing, and the student's SEVIS record to be updated to reflect the employment authorization.  Use this link to report your J-1 on-campus employment information, and request a Social Security Number Support Letter.   

J-1 students must have an on-campus job or job offer in order to apply for a Social Security Number.  International students may apply for a Social Security Number no earlier than two weeks after they arrive on campus at New Paltz. The only way to receive a Social Security Number is by making a formal application in person to the Social Security Administration.

The Social Security card issued to non-resident J-1 students may specify that it is “valid only with employment authorization.” Issuance of a Social Security card is NOT employment authorization.   

Special Consideration

You must have an offer of authorized employment to qualify for a social security number.  
 

Social Security Administration Office

Office hours are between 8:45 a.m. and 3:45 p.m. Monday through Friday except legal holidays.

J-1 students MUST bring the following with you to Social Security Administration:    
 

• Passport

• Visa

• I-94 print out

• DS-2019 (J-1)

• Social Security Number Support Letter from International Student Programs verifying your status

• Completed On Campus Employer Letter or  Academic Training Offer letter 

​The Social Security Administration office is located in Poughkeepsie, NY. If you do not have access to a car, you may choose to take the bus to Poughkeepsie. 

Address:
Social Security Administration
332 Main Street
Poughkeepsie, NY  12601
Phone:
1-877-405-6747
 
If you have any questions, you may contact the Social Security Office directly.

Website: 
Social Security Administration  
 
Directions to the Poughkeepsie, NY Social Security Administration Office
Take the Poughkeepsie/ Ulster link bus from campus and get off at Main Street and Market Street in Poughkeepsie. To return, get on the bus at Main Street and Market Street in Poughkeepsie and that will take you back to the bus station on Main Street in New Paltz. See bus schedule*