How to apply for a Social Security Number

International students may apply for a Social Security number as soon as they arrive. Even if you are not employed, it is helpful to have one as an identification number for registration with the University. You only have a Social Security number if you have made a formal application for one. Your University Identification Number, a nine-digit number that may begin with 5 zeros or 998, may be used until you receive the Social Security Number.

You must submit an application in person at a Social Security Administration office, two of which are listed below. Please come by the Center for International Programs first so that we may give you a letter to facilitate your application. In addition, bring your original passport, I-20 or IAP-66 and I-94 card with you when you apply.

Social Security Administration Offices are in Kingston and Poughkeepsie, NY. If you do not have access to a car, you may choose to take the bus to Kingston. Directions are provided below.

Both offices are open between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday except for legal holidays. If you have any questions, you may contact the Social Security Office directly.

Social Security Administration
289 Stockade Drive
Kingston, NY 12401
(845) 338-2589

Social Security Administration
Vassar Main Building
191 Main Street
Poughkeepsie, NY 12601
(845) 452-3584

The Social Security card issued to nonresident F-1 or J-1 students may specify that it is "valid only with employment authorization". Students may use this card number for employment purposes only if their employment has been properly authorized by the Immigration and Naturalization Service or the International Student Adviser. If you have questions about applying for authorization to accept employment, please contact the International Student Advisor.

Directions to the Kingston, NY Social Security Administration Office

The Trailways Buses leave from Main Street, New Paltz and stop near the Social Security Office in Kingston. The following timetable is valid until October 12, 1999.

Monday to Friday Schedule:

Leave New Paltz		Arrive in Kingston
8:35 am 10:05 am 11:35 am 2:05 pm		9:05 am 10:35 am 12:05 pm 2:35 pm
Leave Kingston		Arrive in New Paltz
8:30am 10:30 am 10:45 am 12:30 pm 5:30 pm		8:55 am 10:55 am 11:10 am 12:55pm 5:55pm

The office is located near the Kingston Bus Terminal off Schwenk Drive opposite Kingston Plaza. The entrance to the building is located in back of 89-91 Schwenk Drive.