Undocumented with SSN?

Hello there,

So I've read few threads and posts saying that some of the people here actually do have SSN. How is this possible? I mean how can someone be undocumented if he/she has SSN?

People can be here legally, get an SSN. Then they go out of status, but they still have a valid SSN.

Also, years back, when an individual put in a green card application, they were issued a SSN/working permit temporarily. If the petition was subsequently denied, and the person chose to remain in the U.S., the SSN still remained valid and legit. My mom has a SSN from when she first put in her immigration application, but is now undocumented.

This is exactly what happened to me and this is the reason why I've always had a SSN.

Also, before 1996, anyone could get an SSN, regardless of their visa status.