Social Security Number (SSN)

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain temporary residents. The number is issued to an individual by the SSA after verifying his or her identity. The SSN is used to track an individual’s earnings and to provide access to government benefits. It is also used by financial institutions to verify an individual’s identity when opening a bank account or applying for a loan. The SSN is issued for life and does not need to be renewed. 

All financial institutes need a TIN or SSN from their client if the client is a US Person for tax purposes. This can come as a surprise to the customers of the bank or financial institute because they are not always aware of having American citizenship.

To obtain an SSN, you must complete complex application forms and provide various documents to prove your residence and identity, including your birth certificate. The duration of the application process varies between countries, taking anywhere from 4 weeks to a year. Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) in your country of residence to apply.

Do you have or think you have an SSN number? You can also request a replacement card from the SSA.

You need a Social Security Number (SSN) for various reasons, such as to work in the US, file taxes, open a bank account, apply for US government benefits, and obtain a US passport.

If you have little to no ties to the US, it is likely that you will only use an SSN to file tax returns in the US and need it to give up to financial institutions outside of America. These institutions need to report your SSN annually if you are a US person.

Need more help or can’t find certain information? Ask about the Social Security service at Americans Overseas, we are here to help you get through the process and inform you of all rights and obligations.

Take advantage of our experience and get in touch, no strings attached.