Social Security Tips for Immigrants + Upcoming Immigration Events

Get Credit for your Earnings
If you were undocumented in the United States and now have legal status, this information is for you. If you worked with a Social Security number that you invented, you may be entitled to transfer the credit for those years of work to your valid Social Security number.

The U.S. government uses Social Security numbers to track a person’s earnings and number of years worked. That information is used to calculate a person’s benefit payments when they retire, or if they qualify for disability income. If you have previously worked using an ITIN or an invented social security number and you now have a valid social security number, make sure you get credit for all your hard work! Visit your local Social Security Administration office and ask about transferring your credits. You may be asked to bring copies of your previous tax returns or pay stubs as proof of your earnings.

Sometimes, not everyone at the Social Security Administration office is familiar with the process of transferring credits, so you may need to ask for someone else to help you. In the past, our clients have told us that the employees who speak Spanish have more experience with the process.

Pro Tip: Do NOT carry your Social Security card with you.
When you get your Social Security card, memorize the number, and put the card in a safe place at home. NEVER carry your Social Security card (or any piece of paper with your number written on it) in your purse or wallet unless you need the card THAT DAY. Why? If your card or number is lost or stolen, it is very easy for an identity thief to take over your identity, opening bank accounts and credit cards, obtaining a driver’s license, and even working under your name. Unlike a debit or credit card, you cannot simply cancel your Social Security number if it is lost or stolen. Having a Social Security number is NOT proof of your legal status, so there’s no benefit to having it with you. Don’t take the risk!

Events:

April 27^th: Citizenship Day at Tacoma Community House
Do you need help preparing your application for U.S. citizenship? Attend Citizenship Day at Tacoma Community House on Saturday, April 27, 2019 for FREE assistance from volunteer immigration attorneys and support staff. The event begins at 10:00am, but we strongly recommend arriving early. Click here for more details about where to go and what documents to bring with you.

May 5th: Detention Lottery at Plymouth Church UCC
On Sunday, May 5, 2019, Plymouth Immigration Ministry will host a production of The Detention Lottery following the 10:30am worship service at the Plymouth Church United Church of Christ in downtown Seattle. Visit the church’s Facebook event page for more details.