SSN - How bad of a mistake have I made?

[Dave Moseley 0]

In short, I never applied for my Social Security number once arriving in the US. I believed it was something issued when the AOS/Work permit was approved, but now I'm understanding that it's something YOU should apply for as soon as you can after entering the country, and that you need a valid I-94 to get one. My problem is that I'm now about 4 weeks past my '90 days' staying period. However, we filed all the AOS forms (along with requests for work permit and travel auth) back in March and they were received by USCIS 3/26/14.

A quick Google search for what to do when your I-94 has expired (which presumably mine technically has?) hasn't helped and the Orlando SS office hasn't answered my call - they close in 20 mins - so does anyone here have any idea what I should do next??

As always, thank you for your advice VJ!

[Harpa Timsah 13,258]

Not a huge problem.

You missed the first window while your I-94 was valid, but once you get your EAD you can request a number. Can't get one until then. Best of luck.

[Caryh 5,206]

wait for your EAD and then apply for your SSN. You can not get one until then at this point.

[sweet cakes 326]

In short, I never applied for my Social Security number once arriving in the US. I believed it was something issued when the AOS/Work permit was approved, but now I'm understanding that it's something YOU should apply for as soon as you can after entering the country, and that you need a valid I-94 to get one. My problem is that I'm now about 4 weeks past my '90 days' staying period. However, we filed all the AOS forms (along with requests for work permit and travel auth) back in March and they were received by USCIS 3/26/14.

A quick Google search for what to do when your I-94 has expired (which presumably mine technically has?) hasn't helped and the Orlando SS office hasn't answered my call - they close in 20 mins - so does anyone here have any idea what I should do next??

As always, thank you for your advice VJ!

Since your I-94 expired already, you will have to wait until you get you EAD/AP card before you can apply for SSN. But this not uncommon and not a major issue too.

Edit: Responded a little too late.

Edited April 29, 2014 by sweet cakes

[Dave Moseley 0]

Okay, that's a relief. Just means another couple of weeks delay before I can start work but better than getting kicked out!! Thanks everyone!

Edited April 29, 2014 by Dave Moseley

[KayDeeCee 4,893]

~ Moved from AOS from Family Based Visas to Social Security Numbers - topic is SSN ~

[N&S 32]

You wouldn't have been allowed to work before EAD has been approved either way, so nothing lost on that front. Only thing that might be a nuisance is getting a driver's licence before the SSN.