Tax Identification Number Information

Information for Nonresidents on Social Security Numbers (SSN) and Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

All nonresident aliens who are eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) must apply with the Social Security Office using the application and authorization for release forms available in the International Office or Payroll Office including on the Nonresident Alien Information and Forms web page. You will also need an employment letter from your department which includes information on your job and start date. If you are eligible for an SSN, you should apply for one at the Social Security Administration office after waiting 10 days from your date of entrance to the US. If you wait the 10 days before applying, your SSN should be issued within two weeks of applying. In Evanston, the Social Security Office is located at 2116 Green Bay Road, and in Chicago at 77 W. Jackson Blvd, 3rd floor.

Nonresidents who will receive stipends from a fellowship but will not be employed in any other way such as a graduate assistantship or temporary employment will not be eligible for a SSN and must complete Form W-7, Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This form is available at the International Office and Payroll Office including on the Nonresident Alien Information and Forms web page and must be turned in to the Payroll Office. ITINs are issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and must be presented to the Payroll Office after you receive it. If you become eligible for a Social Security Number later because of employment at the University such as a graduate assistantship or temporary employment, you must apply for a SSN and provide this to Payroll as this will completely replace your ITIN.

Anyone receiving payments through payroll must provide a copy of their Social Security card or if not eligible for an SSN their Form W7 to the Payroll Office as soon as possible. Faculty, researchers, graduate assistants, and fellowship recipients may receive payments for up to 30 days without providing their SSN or W7. After 30 days these payments will be stopped until this is received in Payroll. All other employees including temporary student employees must have a Social Security Card before they can begin working.

Please contact us if you have any questions. We can be contacted on the Evanston campus at 720 University Place, 2nd floor phone 847-491-7362 and on the Chicago campus at Abbott Hall, room 850 phone 312-503-9700. We can also be reached at payroll@northwestern.edu.