9/11/2009

1. Pubic Assistance Purpose Social Security Cards

Certain aliens who have valid status but no DHS authorization to work within the U.S. can still receive a Social Security Number. These individuals will be issued a Social Security Card if they are legally required to present a Social Security number in order to receive public assistance benefits that they already qualify for. This type of card is issued for non-work purposes and is clearly marked with “NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT.” 

Individuals who receive this type of card will be able to use it for identification purposes but will not be allowed to work unless they gain authorization and receive a new Social Security Card. For example, an alien whose family qualifies to receive benefits under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program will need to provide a Social Security Number. If none of the members of the family have DHS work authorization, they can receive a non-work Social Security Card in order to receive federal assistance.

2. Upgrade of Social Security Cards

If an individual who did not have authorization to work receives permission through a change of status or by receiving a green card, he can change the type of card he was originally issued by applying for a replacement card. He must provide evidence of his new work eligibility, such as a copy of a green card or a valid work permit issued by the DHS, when he files his application with the Social Security Administration. The replacement card will reflect the new eligibility to work but the Social Security Number will remain the same.

           
3. Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)

Certain aliens with legal status or those out of status are not eligible for a Social Security Card for work or non-work purposes. Without social security card (number), one can not file tax return or to be included as dependent in a tax return filed by the principal tax return filer.  

To solve this issue, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) allows this an alien who do not have a social security number to file a W-7 form to apply for an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN).   ITIN is issued by the IRS for federal tax reporting only. It does not authorize an individual to work in the U.S. or confer eligibility for Social Security benefits and can be used as identification only within the tax system. This will also allow an individual to open a bank account.