Where’s My Social Security Card? EAD Recipients and New Citizens Face Delays After Trump Ends Automatic SS Card Issuance/Updates

The Trump administration's decision to pause the Enumeration Beyond Entry (EBE) program has significantly disrupted the process of obtaining Social Security Numbers (SSNs) and cards for Employment Authorization Document (EAD) holders and newly naturalized citizens. This abrupt change has led to increased burdens on individuals and the Social Security Administration (SSA), resulting in longer wait times and additional administrative challenges. If you recently received approval for an EAD or naturalization and you’re wondering why you haven’t received your social security card or updated SS card, then you’ve come to the right place.

Understanding the Enumeration Beyond Entry (EBE) Program

The EBE program, established in 2017, was a collaborative effort between the SSA and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It allowed individuals applying for work authorization (Form I-765) or naturalization (Form N-400) to request an SSN or update their existing records directly through their immigration applications. This streamlined process eliminated the need for separate visits to SSA field offices, reducing administrative burdens and costs and expediting access to essential services for new workers and citizens.

Impacts of the EBE Program’s Suspension

In March 2025, by order of the Trump administration, the SSA quietly paused the EBE program, which has left many new EAD holders and citizens wondering what happened with their social security cards. Without the automated system, individuals must now schedule in-person appointments at SSA field offices to obtain or update their SSNs/cards. This shift has resulted in an estimated 60,000 to 75,000 additional weekly visits to SSA offices, which are already strained due to a 12% workforce reduction and the closure of several regional offices.

The increased demand has also caused excessive hold times when attempting to schedule appointments via phone, with average wait times exceeding several hours. For affected individuals, this situation not only delays the ability to work and secure their status, but it also increases the cost of processing SSN applications from $8 (via EBE) to $55.80 per in-person visit.

Navigating the New Process: How to Obtain Your Social Security Card

For those affected by the EBE program suspension, it's essential to take proactive steps to obtain or update your SSN:

Schedule an Appointment Online: To avoid long phone wait times, use the SSA's online appointment request system, found here: SSA Appointment Request.
Complete the SS-5 Form: Download and fill out the Application for a Social Security Card (Form SS-5) before your appointment, found here: Form SS-5.
Gather Required Documents: Whether you schedule online or show up in person, be sure to bring your identification documents, such as, your EAD, passport, or Certificate of Naturalization.

By following these steps, you can navigate the current challenges and ensure that you will receive your social security card in a timely manner.

At Carbone Law, we are experienced in assisting clients with filing for immigration benefits (e.g., green cards, work authorization, naturalization, etc.). We can help assess your situation and guide you through any issues related to the immigration benefit process. If you are interested in filing for immigration benefits with USCIS, please do not hesitate to give us a call at (212) 547-8857 or schedule a consultation online and we'd be happy to work with you. Our experienced immigration attorneys are here to provide the advice you need. Contact us today and take the next step towards your immigration journey!

Disclaimer: This blog post and similar posts are not to be considered as providing legal advice. The discussion here is meant for educational and informational purposes only and shall not create an attorney-client relationship with the readers of this content.