Section # 1:
Effective October 13, 2004, F-1 students who apply for a Social Security Number (SSN) on the basis of on-campus employment will have to prove that he or she is engaged in or has secured employment prior to SSN application. This employment verification will be required in addition to a letter from WSU International Programs confirming F-1 students’ on-campus employment eligibility.
This new rule does not apply to F-1 students who have an Employment Authorization Document granted by the USCIS (Immigration Services) or Curricular Practical Training. Also, students who already have a SSN do not need to re-apply.
F-1 students must present the following documents for SSN application.
- A valid SEVIS I-20
- A valid passport
- I-94 card
- F-1 visa stamp (or change of status approval)
- Photocopies of all above immigration documents
- A completed Social Security Card application form
- A letter issued by WSU International Programs
- A letter issued by student’s on-campus employer (effective 10/13/04)
Questions may be directed to Office of International Students & Scholars, 335-4508 or Student Employment, 335-4521.
Template Letter for Department Personnel to Complete and Print on Letterhead - PDF format 52KB, requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader
Social Security Card Application F-1 Students - PDF format 32KB, requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader
To read the entire new Social Security evidentiary rules see this link to the Federal Register
Section # 2:
The Social Security Adminsitration will no longer issue a social security number if the individual is not employed. Student athletes on scholarship or fellowship who do not have a United States issued social security number may apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) by completing IRS form W-7. Student atheletes who receive scholarship or fellowship money which exceed the cost of tuition, books and fees will most likely be required to file a US tax return and will need an ITIN inorder to complete the income tax form.
Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (W-7 form) Blank form and instructions - PDF format 138KB, requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader
SAMPLE Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (W-7 form) - PDF format 138KB, requires the free Adobe Acrobat Reader
Copy form for your files. Mail completed form and documents to:
Internal Revenue Service
Philadelphia Service Center
ITIN Unit
PO BOX 447
Bensalem, PA 19020Or go to the "Walk in" office at:
US Courthouse
920 W Riverside, Rm 125
Spokane, WA 99201
Section # 3:
Taxation Pointers Non U.S. Citizens
Social Security Card Application Pointers
Social Security Number and Card: Get a New or Replacement Card