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A social security number is important so if you don't have one, you need to apply for one. If you are not familiar with the application process, here are a few tips. Initially, you need to know what an SSN is. A government system known as Social Security Administration is the one responsible for assigning this unique number to the people.

The Social Security Number (SSN) is used by agencies of the US government, businesses, and schools to identify people in their computer systems. This number is a very important part of a citizen's life because it is used in identification. Anybody who has a legitimate job and pays his taxes in the United States of America is required to have this number. The Social Security Number has nine digits which are divided into three portions.

The first three numbers indicate the state in which the citizen is residing at the time of the application. The next two digits have no particular significance to the holder but are there to break the numbers into blocks that are easy to memorize. The last four characters stand for a straight numerical progression of allotted numbers. There are three types of SSN cards being issued nowadays.

The first card is the regular one which has been commonly issued since 1935. Aside from displaying the name of the person and his SSN, it allows the person to work without restrictions. This is being issued to United States citizens and permanent resident aliens or green card holders. The latter refers to United States immigrants who have been granted immigration benefits.

The second type of SSN card bears the phrase "NOT VALID FOR EMPLOYMENT". This card is issued by the Social Security Agency for people from another country who are legally admitted to the United States without a U. S. citizenship and work authorization from the immigration services. They need an SSN because the federal, state, or local law requires them to have one in order to avail of some benefits or services.

Issued during the early 90s, the third card has the phrase "Valid for Work Only With INS Authorization" and given to people who are temporarily admitted to the US and has the permit to work from the immigration service. If you are planning to get your own SSN, you need to get a Form SS-5. This can be obtained from the Social Security Agency. Those who are familiar with the process and are applying for a new SSN for some reason can just mail all the necessary documents but those who just turned 18 are required for an appearance when they apply. This means that they need to apply personally. Remember to read all the necessary instructions and guidelines in the form so that you will know what documents to secure.

But those who need to get a social security number but don't have the permission to work in the US are required to submit a letter with a letterhead of the government agency that is requiring him or her to secure a number. The letter should contain your name as the applicant, the mandate or the law that requires you to get one and a declaration that you have indeed completed all the requirements in acquiring an SSN.