How to get a Social Security number for work in the US

Checked against official sources on November 5, 2026. Covers: United States. First-time Social Security numbers, replacement cards and what employers need. Immigration and work-permit rules are covered only where Social Security or the IRS states them.

You need a Social Security number (SSN) to be paid by an employer in the US. Getting one is free. If you are in the US, you can start online at ssa.gov, then visit a Social Security office with your documents. Once approved, your card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. All US citizens can get an SSN. Some noncitizens can too, mainly those allowed to work. An ITIN is not a substitute: it does not authorize work.

What an SSN is and when you need it

A Social Security number is a 9-digit number that is unique to you. You may need it to start a job, file taxes, open a bank account, apply for a loan, get a passport or claim government benefits. Social Security

Your employer needs your name and SSN to report your wages on Form W-2. This applies to all employees, including noncitizens. IRS

Who can get an SSN

US citizens: all citizens can request a number.
Noncitizens: some can request a number if they work or attend school, or have a valid nonwork reason. Social Security has separate guidance for noncitizens, international students, foreign workers and DACA applicants.

Social Security · Noncitizens (PDF) · International students (PDF)

How to apply

Start your application online at ssa.gov if you are in the US.
Visit your local Social Security office to show your documents.
Once your application is approved, your card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days.

There is no fee. Social Security

You must fill out and sign the application yourself. Your employer cannot apply for your number for you. IRS

Starting a job while you wait for your number

If you have applied but do not have your number yet, your employer can report your wages as "Applied For" and correct the record once your number is issued. IRS

Your employer may ask to see your card, but you do not have to show it if it is not available. An employer must not accept a card marked "Not valid for employment." A valid SSN on its own does not prove you are allowed to work. IRS

SSN or ITIN

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a 9-digit tax number from the IRS for people who cannot get an SSN.

An ITIN does not authorize you to work in the US.
It does not give you immigration status or Social Security benefits.
You cannot have both. If you later get an SSN, use it and tell the IRS so your records can be combined.
Employers must not use an ITIN in place of an SSN on Form W-2.

IRS: ITIN · IRS Publication 15

If your card is lost or your number is stolen

Lost card: a replacement is free, and you may be able to request it online. It arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. In most cases you do not need the physical card if you know your number. Local offices cannot print a card for you. Social Security

Stolen number: report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. Social Security

Common questions

How much does a Social Security number cost?

Nothing. Requesting a number and replacing a card are both free. Source

How long does it take to get a Social Security card?

After your application is approved, the card arrives by mail in 5 to 10 business days. Source

Can I apply for an SSN online?

If you are in the US, you can start online, then visit a Social Security office to provide your documents. Source

Does my employer need my SSN?

Yes. Employers report your name and SSN on Form W-2. Source

What if my SSN has not arrived when I start a job?

Your employer can report your wages as "Applied For" and correct the record once your number is issued. Source

Can my employer apply for my SSN for me?

No. You must complete and sign the application yourself. Source

Can I work with an ITIN?

No. An ITIN is for taxes only and does not authorize work. Source

Can I have both an ITIN and an SSN?

No. If you get an SSN, use it for taxes and tell the IRS. Source

Do I have to show my Social Security card to my employer?

Your employer may ask to see it, but you do not have to show it if it is not available. Source

What do I do if my Social Security number is stolen?

Report it to the Federal Trade Commission at IdentityTheft.gov. Source

Sources

Official government pages, checked November 5, 2026. Rules change, so confirm details on the source before you act.

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