Social Security Number (SSN)

To work in the U.S. you must have a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN) for tax witholding purposes. You may start working while you are in the process of applying for an SSN. If you do not have an SSN at the time you are hired, your employer may ask to see evidence that you are in the process of applying for an SSN.

If your employer is Harvard, between the time you apply for an SSN and when you receive your card in the mail, you may be issued a placeholder number for internal use only. The placeholder number is not an actual SSN and cannot be used for anything other than internal Harvard processes. Do not use the placeholder number when completing your tax forms, or for any other purpose.

Your Social Security Number is an important identifying number, and should be kept in a safe place to avoid identity theft. Do not give out this number to unknown parties, especially over the phone, email or text message. For more information, please see Identity Theft.

The tax resources offered by the HIO are provided so that international members of the Harvard community can make informed personal decisions concerning their taxes. HIO advisors are not trained tax specialists and cannot provide individual advice on taxes. By using these tax assistance programs, you acknowledge that Harvard University is not liable for any errors and incidental or consequential damages in connection with the furnishing, performance or use by you of these on-line systems, online help and/or examples contained therein. You should seek professional tax advice from a qualified accountant or attorney if you have questions or need clarification.