raphael1899
Well-Known Member
It was the same for me. No appointment. I had to mail my original documents. In my case, I was replacing my first SSN card that I got as an F1 student.
DV 2021 AOS Only
- Thread starter Sm1smom
- Start date
sultiik
Member
I really got frustrated with that. Now other specialist is saying in order issue new SSN you have to visit us in person. Specialists are playing with us like a ball.
I called them to make an appointment for the SSN. As, I was in F1 before, working on OPT, I had an SSN, but my wife was in F2 so she did not. They told me that my SSN is updated and there nothing they need to do on their side. Then they schedule an appointment for my wife, and asked to bring Green card, Original Birth Certificate, and ID (passport). Its really simple, I am not sure why they are confusing you. As raphael1899 mentioned need to replace the SSN card, I explain them my situation but they said nothing need to do on my SSN. I called them twice and different person said the same-thing.
Sm1smom
Super Moderator
If you want a copy of your SSN card without the DHS restrictions listed, you are eligible to request a replacement card. When next you call, simple tell them you need a replacement card, without any additional details about recently becoming a LPR. Alternatively you can simply create an account and submit a replacement request online. If the replacement card shows up with the DHS restrictions still listed, it means they have not updated your information contrary to what they told you online (they need your GC in order to update your information in their system):
Sm1smom
Super Moderator
Request an appointment to come into their office, better than mailing in your documents.
SusieQQQ
Well-Known Member
Nope, actually they can service people outside their zip code (and I know people who have, and it is also in the official SS office manual, linked below). Maybe your office is choosing to do that because of COVID. Same with phone, some offices are booking “quickie” appointments for essential things like change of status where you literally get a 5 or 10 minute interview slot to show your docs and leave - again I know people who’ve done that. If I were you I would certainly try other offices, for both reasons,
SSA - POMS: GN 00904.064 - Handling Claims and Claims Inquiries in Non-Resident Office
Handling Claims and Claims Inquiries in Non-Resident Office
secure.ssa.gov
When a claim is filed, or inquiry made about filing a claim in person or by telephone at a nonresident office (or one of its contact stations) ask whether it will be more convenient for the person to contact that office rather than the resident office. If the person was merely confused about the location of the DO servicing his/her address and would prefer to contact that office follow GN 00904.064C. If the person prefers to contact the nonresident office, follow D. below.
D. Applicant (Or One Of The Applicants) Is The Principal Claimant And Prefers To Contact Nonresident Office
Handle the claim or inquiry to completion as though your office were the resident office.Thank you so much MOM. As they said my SSN doesn't have any restriction, I am good to do any addition work right, which I was not able to do during my F1? If they let me in, I will ask them during my wife's appointment.If you want a copy of your SSN card without the DHS restrictions listed, you are eligible to request a replacement card. When next you call, simple tell them you need a replacement card, without any additional details about recently becoming a LPR. Alternatively you can simply create an account and submit a replacement request online. If the replacement card shows up with the DHS restrictions still listed, it means they have not updated your information contrary to what they told you online (they need your GC in order to update your information in their system):
Sm1smom
Super Moderator
Yes I know your SSN may no longer have any restriction attached to it by virtue of your being a LPR. However, I'm sure the SSN card which you currently have shows the DHS restriction, right? So if you want to have a copy of the SSN card without the DHS restriction listed/written on it, you need to apply for a replacement SSN card.
Is it a must to apply for a replacement card as a LPR? The short answer is NO. However, it is a good idea to always have the accurate document (which is your personal record on hand by the way). There have been cases of LPRs with expired plastic GC who had difficulties with obtaining new employment because the only document they had to show their prospective new employer was the SSN card with the DHS restrictions on it which the employer was not willing to accept for employment verification purpose. And they couldn't use their GC either for employment verification because it had expired and they were waiting for the new GC. They couldn't get a replacement SSN card without the DHS restriction at that point also because of the expired GC. Hope you have a better understanding now as to the importance of getting a replacement SSN card regardless of what you were told, and I'm not even sure what they told you was accurate considering they did not see your GC to verify your new status, which is something they need to do.
Yes, It is written on my card. I was also confused when they said there is no restriction on my SSN and it is up to date. I called them twice to schedule to reschedule my wife's appointment. I asked them about my SSN and the reply was the same. I will definitely ask for the replacement and have it with me.Thank you so much MOM.
Sm1smom
Super Moderator
All you needed to tell them was that you need a replacement SSN card. If they give you the same inaccurate response, insist on applying for a replacement card as you no longer have the old one. Just make sure you attend the appointment with your GC and pre-fill the application form in advance to save yourself some time at their office.
Sure. I will do that. Thanks again.
leolandivar
Member
Good afternoon everyone,
With all your experiences, is there a specific mailing service you would suggest for me to use to send my AOS package? (USPS Vs. FedEx Vs. UPS Vs. DHL)
Also, any additional features? Such as priority mail, signature verification, notification of delivery, multiple attempts to deliver, etc.?
Probably just overthinking it but may be worth asking.
Thank you!
With all your experiences, is there a specific mailing service you would suggest for me to use to send my AOS package? (USPS Vs. FedEx Vs. UPS Vs. DHL)
Also, any additional features? Such as priority mail, signature verification, notification of delivery, multiple attempts to deliver, etc.?
Probably just overthinking it but may be worth asking.
Thank you!
coffeemonster
Well-Known Member
It shouldn't matter much, as long as you use the right address - it's not the same for USPS as the other couriers.
Personally I've seen so many issues with USPS lately that they would be my last choice.
Get a signature for your own piece of mind. Beyond that don't worry about it.
leolandivar
Member
Perfect, I will leave USPS as my last option, thank you!
Sm1smom
Super Moderator
You’re not restricted regarding where to get health insurance coverage.
Thank you! The USCIS doesn't pay attention to if I have a health insurance or not. Right?
Blade_
Well-Known Member
Check the timeline spreadsheet and the incident tracker (https://bit.ly/3uQahSE).
just saying-health insurance from school provide the best coverage for the buck in my opinion. I would check before cancelling