Social Security Number (SSN) Information

The Social Security Number (SSN) is a card issued by the Social Security Administration (an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services). The card bears a unique nine-digit identification number and is issued to qualified individuals. Students who work on campus are required to obtain a Social Security card. The Student Academic Services Office will aid students in obtaining their Social Security card, which is “valid for work only with DHS authorization”.

Criteria and How to Apply

5 Easy Steps to Applying for a Social Security Number (SSN)

1. Find a Campus Job (or, with proper authorization only, an off-campus job).  For current on-campus openings click here.
2. Your supervisor can email the following details to your DSO:
   • Student's legal name
   • Student's Skidmore ID#
   • Position offered and department
   • Start date
   • Hours/week
   • Supervisor's complete name
   • Supervisor's title
   • Supervisor's department
   • Supervisor's work number
   • Supervisor's official email address
3. Your DSO will produce a letter with the above information and verifying your status.
4. Complete the application form for a new SSN.
5. Take the following items to the nearest Social Security Administration (SSA) office:
   • Original Passport (+1 photocopy of ID page)
   • I-20 (+ 1 photocopy)
   • I-94 https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/I94/#/home   (+1 photocopy)
   • Letter of employment authorization OR letter of ineligibility (from DSO and your work supervisor)
   • Pre-completed "Application for a Social Security Card" (not necessary with letter of ineligibilty) https://www.ssa.gov/ssnumber/ 

Where to Apply

(this office is accessible by CDTA/public transportation, free using your Skidmore ID):
SOCIAL SECURITY
8TH FLOOR
ONE BROADWAY CENTER
SCHENECTADY, NY 12305
Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday

Click here for directions on how to get to the Schenectady SSA office using CDTA.

Click here for a map of the neighborhood around the Schenectady SSA office.

Social Security Number Ineligibility Letter

There are times when an international student will need a letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) citing they are ineligible for a SSN (e.g. when applying for a New York State learner’s permit, driver’s license, or non-driver’s license ID).  To receive this letter you must visit any SSA office with the following documents:

• I-20
• I-94
• passport with visa stamp
• letter from your DSO verifying your status at Skidmore College (please email or visit your DSO requesting this letter)