applying SSN after EAD

[vina123]

We got our EAD/AP card some time back. My wife is currently in H4. If she apply for SSN will that put her in EAD status automatically?

is that OK to apply SSN or do i have to wait till i get my GC? which one is more appropriate?

[SameerH1Bworker]

H4 does not get SSN, so, if she wants to apply based on EAD then yes then after she will no more on H4.

[pontevecchio]

It is OK to apply.

[Belle]

First, there is no such status as EAD. Second, your wife is in status in whatever status she is until she violates that status. She may apply for SSN for a variety of reasons (my newborn was not planning to work right after birth, either), and it is really a non-event.

[tusharvk]

the point is why she needs to apply for ssn. Taxes? you can do itin.

if not planning to work, why apply for ssn.

[Mpurush]

H4 does not get SSN, so, if she wants to apply based on EAD then yes then after she will no more on H4.

Please don't spread wrong information. Applying for SSN while on H4 (and having EAD) will not void H4 status. OPs wife can apply for SSN still maintaining H4 status. Her H4 status will be void only once she starts working on EAD.

[Mpurush]

the point is why she needs to apply for ssn. Taxes? you can do itin.

if not planning to work, why apply for ssn.

There are many reasons for applying for SSN early. For example, if something unfortunate happens to the H1 holder (eg., untimely death), the H4 dependent can claim the social security benefits if s/he has the SSN.

Also once H4 dependent gets SSN, primary (H1) can call his/her credit card companies to add the H4 dependent as a `joing account holder'- that way the H4 dependent can start building a credit history early.

I am sure there could be many other reasons for applying an SSN even if you do not plan to work immediately.

I would urge H4 dependent to apply for SSN as soon as they get their EAD.

[JoeF]

the point is why she needs to apply for ssn. Taxes? you can do itin.

if not planning to work, why apply for ssn.

SSN is for more than just work.

It is always a good idea to have an SSN.

[kasheth]

vina123, just because your wife applied for ssn, it does not put her automatically on EAD. When she actually engages in work using that ssn, she would go on EAD at that time. The SSN card will have writing such as ...with authorization only...for work only...

[catx]

Having a SSN is a good thing, especially when living in the U.S. as it makes any number of things easier -- whether working or not (and I do not see a downside).

In my case, I got my SSN when I was going into high school in southern California (a requirement at that time, mid '70s). My Dad was a university professor and he, my Mom, brother, and I all had green cards. We moved from the U.S. before I started high school. When I came back to the U.S. 20 years later in 1995 I gave my employer my SSN and was immediately good to go. Unfortunately, I am still waiting to get (another) green card (but that is another story).

[vina123]

Thanks for all your info. i found the following by googling, might help some one else...

If I apply for a Social Security Number (SSN), is that considered using an EAD?

-No

What exactly is considered using an EAD?

- When you are employed and submit the copy of your EAD to the employer as part of the I-9 requirements.

How will USCIS know that I have used an EAD?

-When you fill out tax forms such as I-9, W-4, etc., and the employer reports the wages and taxes to the

government, USCIS is advised of your use of an EAD.

If I want to apply for SSN after getting an EAD, what is the best time to apply for it?

-After getting your EAD, you should wait for one week before applying for a SSN.

What happens to ITIN after I get SSN?

-You need to rescind ITIN.