How long does it take to get a Social Security Number?

Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks for U.S. citizens and permanent residents, and 4-6 weeks for other work-authorized non-citizens. In some cases, it can take up to 12 weeks. Apply as soon as you're work-authorized. You can start working while waiting if you have valid I-9 documents.

Can my employer fire me because I don't have an SSN yet?

No. If you're authorized to work and have valid I-9 documents, an employer cannot terminate you solely because your SSN is pending. You must provide the SSN when you receive it and complete any verification requirements (like E-Verify). If an employer threatens termination for this reason, it may be discrimination.

What if my E-Verify case says 'SSN Required'?

For E-Verify employers, SSN is required on the I-9. You can write 'Applied for' and start working. The employer's E-Verify case will be held until you provide your SSN. Once you receive it, inform your employer immediately so they can complete the E-Verify case within required timeframes.

Can I get paid by check if direct deposit requires SSN?

Yes. If your employer's direct deposit system requires SSN, ask for paper checks until your SSN arrives. Some banks will let you deposit checks without SSN using your account number. Once you have your SSN, switch to direct deposit for convenience and to use features like Same Day Pay.

What's the difference between SSN and ITIN?

SSN (Social Security Number) is issued to people authorized to work in the U.S. ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is issued to people who need to file taxes but don't qualify for SSN. If you're work-authorized, apply for an SSN, not an ITIN. ITINs don't authorize employment and look different (start with 9).

I just arrived in the U.S. When should I apply for SSN?

Apply immediately upon arrival or as soon as you receive work authorization (EAD, Green Card, etc.). Don't wait until you have a job offer. Processing takes 2-6 weeks, and having your SSN ready makes starting work much smoother. Visit ssa.gov to find your local Social Security office.

Can I Work Without a Social Security Number?

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Can I Work Without a Social Security Number? | Indeed Flex

Immigration Information Disclaimer

Immigration and work authorization information on this page is general guidance only, not legal advice. Immigration rules are complex, change frequently, and depend on individual circumstances. For decisions about your status, documents, or eligibility, consult a licensed immigration attorney or a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) accredited representative.

The Short Answer: Yes, You Can Work Without SSN

If you're authorized to work in the United States but haven't received your Social Security Number yet, you can still start working.

Key Facts:

There is no law requiring you to have an SSN before starting work
Form I-9 does not require SSN to be complete
Employers can (and must) hire you if you're work-authorized
You'll provide your SSN to your employer once you receive it

Common Situations:

Situation	Can You Work?
Applied for SSN, waiting for card	✓ Yes

Indeed Flex Career Content Team

Last updated: April 12, 2026

Reviewed by Indeed Flex Editorial Board

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How Form I-9 Works Without an SSN

Form I-9 can be completed without a Social Security Number:

Section 1 (Employee Completes):

Fill in all required fields
In the SSN field, write "Applied for" or leave blank (see note below)
Sign and date the form
You've completed your part!

SSN Field Requirements:

Employer Type	SSN on I-9 Required?
E-Verify employer	Yes (but can write "Applied for")
Non-E-Verify employer	No (field is voluntary)

Section 2 (Employer Completes):

Employer examines your documents
Documents must prove identity AND work authorization
SSN is NOT required for document verification
I-9 can be fully completed without SSN

What Documents to Bring:

Since you might not have your Social Security card, use alternatives:

Option 1: List A Document (one document)

U.S. Passport
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
EAD (Employment Authorization Document)

Option 2: List B + C (two documents)

List B: Driver's License or State ID
List C: Birth Certificate (if citizen) OR EAD

See complete I-9 Documents List

Getting Your SSN While Working

Once you start working, continue the SSN application process:

Applying for a Social Security Number:

Required Documents:

Proof of identity (passport, driver's license)
Proof of work authorization (EAD, visa, Green Card)
Proof of age (birth certificate, passport)
Form SS-5 (Application for Social Security Card)

How to Apply:

In Person (Recommended):
- Find your local SSA office: ssa.gov/locator
- Bring original documents (no copies)
- Complete Form SS-5 there or bring completed form
- Receive receipt showing application is pending
By Mail:
- Download Form SS-5 from ssa.gov
- Mail with original documents
- Documents returned within 14 days
- Slower processing

Processing Time:

Situation	Typical Wait
U.S. Citizen	2-4 weeks
Permanent Resident	2-4 weeks
Work-authorized non-citizen	4-6 weeks
Complex cases	6-12 weeks

Once You Receive Your SSN:

Notify your employer immediately
Employer updates your records
If E-Verify employer: They update the E-Verify case
Payroll will use SSN going forward
You do NOT need to complete a new I-9

Getting Paid Without an SSN

Most employers can process payroll while you wait for your SSN:

How Payroll Works:

Employer can hire and pay you without SSN
First few paychecks may show "Applied for" or "000-00-0000"
Taxes are still withheld from your pay
Once SSN is received, records are updated

Potential Challenges:

Issue	Solution
Direct deposit setup	Some banks require SSN; use check payment temporarily
Payroll system rejection	Employer uses placeholder; updates later
Tax withholding questions	Complete W-4 without SSN (same employer file)

Staffing apps and SSN:

Staffing apps typically require:

Valid I-9 documents ✓
SSN (or pending application) ✓
Bank account for payment ✓

You can start the onboarding process while SSN is pending, but the Same Day Pay feature may require SSN and verified bank account to be fully functional.

Bank Account Without SSN:

Opening a bank account:

Some banks require SSN
Others accept ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
Some accept foreign passport + visa documents
Options: Chime, Varo, credit unions

Once you have your SSN, update your bank account information.

Tax Implications: ITIN vs SSN

Understanding tax numbers while waiting for SSN:

Social Security Number (SSN):

Issued by Social Security Administration
Required for most employment
Used for tax filing and work records
Must be authorized to work to receive SSN

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN):

Issued by IRS (not SSA)
For people who need to file taxes but don't qualify for SSN
Does NOT authorize employment
Format: 9XX-XX-XXXX

When You Need an ITIN:

Spouse/dependent of worker without own work authorization
Receiving certain types of income but not work-authorized
Nonresident alien required to file taxes

For Workers:

If you're authorized to work, apply for an SSN, not an ITIN. ITINs don't authorize work and can delay employment.

Tax Filing While Waiting:

Situation	What to Do
SSN received before tax deadline	File normally with SSN
SSN pending at tax time	File for extension, wait for SSN
Can't get SSN	Apply for ITIN with tax return

Form W-4 (Tax Withholding):

Complete Form W-4 when you start work:

Leave SSN blank if pending
Employer will update when you provide SSN
Taxes are still withheld from your paychecks

Jobs

The Short Answer: Yes, You Can Work Without SSN

Put Your Knowledge Into Action

How Form I-9 Works Without an SSN

Getting Your SSN While Working

Getting Paid Without an SSN

Tax Implications: ITIN vs SSN

What Employers Cannot Do

Getting Started on a Staffing App Without an SSN

Can I Work Without a Social Security Number?

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Frequently Asked Questions

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