EAD (Employment Authorization Document)

EAD, or Employment Authorization Document, is a work permit issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows foreign nationals to legally work in the United States for a specified period of time. It is often referred to as a "work permit."

Key Benefits of EAD:

1. Legal Right to Work:

• EAD grants you the legal ability to work in the U.S. while your immigration status is pending or under processing. It is particularly useful for those waiting for green card approval, asylum, or other long-term visas.

2. Employment Flexibility:

• Unlike some specific visas (like H-1B) that restrict workers to a specific employer, an EAD allows the holder to work for any employer or even start their own business.

3. Renewable:

• EAD is usually issued for a set period (e.g., 1 or 2 years), but it can be renewed as long as you maintain your eligibility.

4. Used for Multiple Visa Categories:

• EADs can be issued for individuals waiting on adjustment of status (AOS), asylum seekers, DACA recipients, spouses of H-1B workers (H-4 visa), and more.

Social Security Number (SSN)

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and certain temporary working residents. It is primarily used for tracking individuals' earnings and benefits.

Key Benefits of SSN:

1. Tax Identification:

• The SSN is used by the IRS to track income for tax purposes. Employers use it to report wages to the government, and individuals use it when filing taxes.

2. Employment Eligibility:

• SSN is often required to apply for jobs in the U.S. Employers use it to verify an individual's work eligibility and to report wages.

3. Access to Social Security Benefits:

• Once you have earned enough credits by working, your SSN allows you to qualify for Social Security benefits like retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

4. Financial Services:

• Many financial institutions require an SSN to open bank accounts, apply for credit cards, and establish a credit history in the U.S.

5. Government Programs:

• An SSN may be necessary to access various government services and benefits, including Medicare, unemployment benefits, and federal financial aid.

Differences and Relationship Between EAD and SSN:

• EAD allows you to legally work in the U.S., but it does not automatically provide you with an SSN.

• You can apply for an SSN once you have an EAD. Having both allows you to work legally (via EAD) and properly report taxes and access benefits (via SSN).