New I-485 Allows Applicants to Apply for SSN or Replacement Card

Update Post 09/28/2021

Original Post 08/10/2021

USCIS announced on August 9, 2021 that a new Form I-485 (edition date 03/29/2021) will allow applicants to apply for social security number (SSN) or a replacement SSN card. Previously, applicants had to apply for SSN at their local Social Security Office and may require multiple trips. The new form contains the following new section regarding SSN:

This new Form improves efficiency and helps applicants save time. After approving Form I-485, in most cases USCIS will electronically transmit the data to the Social Security Administration. Upon receiving the data, the Social Security Administration will automatically assign an original SSN or issue a replacement card, as appropriate. This partnership with the Social Security Administration will not increase the filing fee for Form I-485.

The current edition (03/10/2021) of the form is valid until October 12, 2021. Starting Oct. 13, 2021, USCIS will only accept the 03/29/21 edition.