Synthesis

Hi there,

I arrived on my K-1, got married, haven't yet sent off my AOS package with application for work authorization. However, I need an SSN pronto because I can't get on my husband's health insurance without it, and it asks for it on some of the AOS forms.

I downloaded the SS-5 form, do I tick the Legal Alien Not Allowed To Work box since I have no work auth yet? If I do that, they want a reason that I need it. Will my above mentioned reasons be good enough?

I won't have to wait until I get work authorization to get an SSN card, will I? I really hope not...

-Synth

Bob

It's a bit late now, but it would have been a lot quicker to have gotten if you applied for it before getting married...now you'll have to wait to get your EAD pretty much...but surely the insurance don't need the number, they can't really ask for it anyway, just a way of ID'ing you, so ask if a passport number will do?

snowbunny

Absolutely. Insurance companies are moving away from "contaminated" data where SSNs are used, and spending a lot of money moving to systems with unique IDs that aren't SSNs. Other companies are following suit.

I would check with your state insurance board to see if you can get some advice; also talk to customer service at the insurance company.