SSN before marriage upon entering US?

[Dutchster 1,106]

21 hours ago, Dutchster said:

Every applicant undergoes mandatory verification of status before receiving a SSN, so that's why you can't apply directly in your maiden name. 

Obviously I meant married name instead of maiden. 

[ImagineMe 35]

23 hours ago, Mrsjackson said:

Hello, 

 

I am going to enter the US with my K1 visa in about 2 weeks. I’m a little confused about exactly what steps to take after. I know I need to get a hold of the I-94 right away. I’ve seen some people on here say that it’s best to get your SSN right away as well, however wouldn’t it be better to wait until your marriage license is issued and you have your proof of name change? I don’t know why it would be better to get the SSN in my maiden name only to have my name change shortly after? Any insight appreciated. 

Thanks for this question and the answers. I would have wondered too.

[Diane and Chris 651]

1 hour ago, geowrian said:

I wouldn't even say it depends on where you live. Honestly, it depends on what worker you get. My wife went to the same SSA 3 times to get the SSN in her married name before they finally got a worker who agreed that the documentation was sufficient. We had an existing SS card in her maiden name already as a backup.

Definitely, in our case it depended on who we got. We got ss card in husband’s “maiden” name before marriage. The gentleman we got was super friendly. After marriage, we made an appointment with same man to change husband’s last name. No problem until he tried changing it in the system. He hit a snag and called over a coworker. Coworker said it couldn’t be done. Our guy then called over supervisor and he showed both of them how it could be accomplished. We were fortunate to have an employee that cared and took the time to provide outstanding customer service. Few and far between, IMO.