Contact DHS, USCIS via the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program
to request information on immigration status about a non-citizen or to verify a DHS-issued
immigration document. SAVE is a USCIS inter-governmental program designed to aid benefit
granting agencies in determining eligibility for public benefits. Neither SAVE nor
USCIS determines eligibility for benefits, but they do provide information SSA uses
to verify immigration status, and thereby assists in ensuring only eligible individuals
receive public benefits.
For claims purposes, access SAVE via the I-Main website (see MS 02902.001) and follow
instructions in GN 00303.610 - GN 00303.640 to confirm the authenticity of immigration
documents submitted to support a claim for benefits and verify the immigration status
and/or work authorization of applicants.
NOTE: For enumeration purposes, SSA uses the Social Security Number Application Process
(SSNAP) to access SAVE. See RM 10214.100 for SAVE verification for enumeration via
SSNAP.
CAUTION: Never ask a claimant/beneficiary to mail their immigration document to SSA. By law,
non-U.S. citizens 18 years of age or older in the U.S. must have immigration documentation
in their possession at all times. If they do not, they are subject to fine and/or
imprisonment. Always copy the immigration documentation and a printout of the SAVE
response, scan or upload the copies into the electronic folder (e.g., Evidence Portal,
eView), and then return the original immigration document to the individual. If the
document includes an Alien Registration Number (ARN or A#), enter the ARN in Person
Information.