A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number issued by Social Security Administration (SSA) ant its format is xxx-xxx-xxxx. Whenever SSN is applied for an individual, SSA office run by USA Government verifies the records, assigns SSN number and that individual receives a SSN card. SSN card is the most important one in USA and you have to keep it in a secure location to avoid potential identity theft. Show the card to others as and when required. You can show your card, when you obtain a new job, open a new bank account, or to obtain benefits or services from certain government agencies.

Citizens and Non-Citizens can apply for SSN and somebody can apply SSN on your behalf too. In general, to apply for a SSN, you will need to provide at least two documents to prove your age, identity, and U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status.

When you are working for an employer, you get salary slips from employer. As of now, in 2006, your employer from your pay slip will debit 6.2%(Federal Insurance Contribution Act - FICA) of your gross income and that amount is paid to USA government. In addition, employer will also pay the equal amount to the USA Government. So totally, you and your employer on behalf of you, pay 12.4% to the USA government. In 2006, the maximum amount that you have to pay FICA is $94, 200. There is no need for you to pay FICA after $94, 200 and this may change according to the rules and regulations. If you are self-employed, then also you have to pay FICA (12.4%) to the USA Government. If you do business and get income, you should also pay FICA. Based on the nature of business (active and passive income), you have to pay FICA. For detailed explanation, contact a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in your locality.

Every year, you will be getting your SSN earnings statement and you can contact your SSN office if there are any inaccuracies. You can also check your social security earnings by submitting relevant forms to the USA Government.

• SSN identifies individual�s records of earnings in an employment or self-employment covered by Social Security and to pay benefits.
• Some of the pro programs included in SSN are Unemployment Insurance, Retirement insurance, Survivors insurance, Disability insurance, Prescription Drug Benefit, Supplemental security income, etc.
• Whenever you file your taxes to USA Government, your SSN is the important one that identifies the taxes paid to the USA Government (Federal and State).
• Whenever there are some budget changes to decrease the tax structure, the amount you already paid to the Government will be refunded to you by identifying your SSN.

• You have to pay FICA for 10 years or 40 quarters and then you are eligible for getting the claim. You can get the claim after your retirement or on your voluntary retirement.
• Since USA Government rule may change from time to time, please visit www.ssa.gov more details. If you are a Foreign National and if you have worked in USA for 10 years or 40 quarters you may be also eligible to get the claim, if your country has treaty with the USA Government.

For more details about Green Card, please visit http://www.uscis.gov/graphics/services/residency/index.htm

Green Card      Individual Tax Identification Number