As of March 19, 2025, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has temporarily halted its Enumeration Beyond Entry (EBE) program, which previously enabled certain noncitizens and new citizens to request a Social Security Number (SSN) directly through immigration forms like the I-765 (Employment Authorization) or N-400 (Naturalization). This suspension, set for at least 90 days pending a policy review, has no guaranteed reinstatement, creating new challenges for applicants and employers.
Who Is Impacted?
The suspension affects:
- F-1 students on Optional Practical Training (OPT)
- H-4 and J-2 spouses with new Employment Authorization Documents (EADs)
- Applicants for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or asylum
- Newly naturalized citizens
- Individuals who relied on EBE for automatic SSN issuance
Exceptions include those filing for adjustment of status via Form I-485 and applicants whose requests were submitted before March 18, 2025, who may still receive SSNs automatically.
Impact on Immigrants and New Citizens
Affected individuals must now visit a local SSA office in person to apply for an SSN, a process likely to cause delays due to understaffed SSA offices and a 12% reduction in workforce, coupled with office closures. An estimated 60,000–75,000 additional weekly visitors to SSA offices could strain services for the 70 million Americans relying on Social Security benefits. Without an SSN, new arrivals may face obstacles in starting jobs, opening bank accounts, or obtaining driver’s licenses. If you’ve recently received work authorization or naturalization approval but no SSN, contact your local SSA office immediately.
Impact on Employers and HR Professionals
Employers must adapt onboarding processes to accommodate delays for foreign nationals and new citizens. Key steps include:
- Updating onboarding protocols to reflect the need for in-person SSN applications
- Guiding employees on scheduling SSA appointments
- For E-Verify users, annotating Form I-9 and deferring E-Verify cases until SSNs are issued
- Noting that employees can legally start work while their SSN application is pending, though prompt application is critical
- Preparing for delays in payroll and benefits processing
Streamlining Compliance with EMP Trust HR
The suspension of the EBE program introduces increased administrative burdens and potential delays. EMP Trust HR’s I-9 and E-Verify solutions simplify compliance by offering automated error-checking, secure digital storage, and seamless integration with 140+ platforms like ADP and SAP. Stay ahead of these challenges with tools designed to keep your HR processes efficient and compliant.
