Social Security Tax

Although all employees are required to obtain a social security number for identification purposes, not all employees are subject to social security tax withholding. Social Security is the U.S. retirement fund, and contributions to that fund must be made by U.S. workers. F-1 and J-1 visa holders are generally exempt from this withholding, since it is expected that those workers will not retire in the U.S. However, if you are in the U.S. more than five years in a temporary status, you may then become subject to this withholding. It is extremely important for you to talk with JMU's payroll office before your first paycheck is issued so this withholding or exemption from withholding is completed properly. It is very difficult to retrieve this money if it has been withheld in error.