HOW TO

All employers in the U.S.A. require that you have a social security number before you begin your employment.  It could take over 6 months to get a US social security number. It is advisable to start the process immediately, so that you will be ready for possible on-campus or practical training employment.  You must complete the following steps in order to receive a social security number: 

• Step 1: Secure an on-campus job offer in writing to present to the ISSO. 
• Step 2: Complete the application form SS-5 Form.  Forms are usually available in the International Student Service Office (ISSO).
• Step 3: Ask your DSO in the ISSO to write you a letter of status for the social security office.  You must have a job verification letter (on-campus job offer in writing) prior to applying for a social security card.
• Step 4: Take the SS-5 Form, letter from the CSUDH - ISSO, your passport, SEVIS I-20 I.D. and the I-94 to any Social Security Office.
• Step 5: Telephone the ISSO when you receive your new social security number and give us your SS number for future reference.

 

F-1 visa student employed under practical training are subject to applicable federal, state, and local income taxes. In some cases, tax relief may be available to tax treaties. The U.S. Information on tax treaties may be found by consulting Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Publication 519, US Tax Guide for Aliens, and 901, US Tax Treaties. 

• Social Security Taxes. In general, you do not have to pay social security (FICA) taxes if you have been in the U.S.A. less than five years. If this is not clear to your employer, you may want to get a copy of the booklet "Social Security Coverage for Foreign Students & Exchange Visitors," available from your local Social security Administration office.

 
• Federal, State, and Local Taxes. Your earnings are subject to federal, state and local taxes, and these amounts should be withheld from your paychecks. All employed student must file an income tax return on or before April 15th of each year, which will determine if any of the withheld taxes can be reclaimed. 

Social Security Offices in California:

Local Social Security Office Addresses:

• Compton - 171 East Compton Blvd.
• Inglewood - 230 East Spruce Ave. 
• Lakewood - 5220 Clark Ave.
• Long Beach - 2005 Long Beach Blvd.
• North Long Beach - 2005 Long Beach Blvd. 
• San Gabriel - 200 South Garfield Ave 
• San Pedro - 210 N. Pacific Ave. 
• Torrance - 22600 Crenshaw Blvd.