Jobs / Employment - Ocean
City MD & Delaware Resorts |
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In order to obtain a J1 visa, you need to have your job arranged in advance. Usually this is accomplished through an organization in your country, or through friends who have had a previous stay in our area on a J1 Student Visa. Upon arrival, if you decide to get a second job, then you will need to visit hotels, restaurants and other services within the area and also ask your roommates for references at their place of employment. We have compiled a list of J1 Visa Exchange Organizations in various countries which may assist you. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE LIST OF EXCHANGE ORGANIZATIONS .PDF DOCUMENT.
Frequently, the local newspapers (available free at grocery stores and other public places and businesses) have advertisements for help wanted. A good skill level in speaking and writing english will give you a significant advantage over other international students in obtaining a good summer job during your stay. If you do not speak or understand english very well, your job opportunities will be limited to jobs not requiring contact with the public, such as housekeeping, washing dishes, and other more menial jobs. The best paying jobs are offered to students who have good English speaking and writing skills.
In order to work in the USA it is necessary to apply for a Social Security card when you enter the USA. It takes about 3 - 4 weeks for your card and number to arrive. When you apply for a card, you will be given a receipt to show your employer saying you are allowed to work until your Social Security card arrives. Be aware that some employers will not give you your paycheck until you get your Social Security number. If you are staying in Ocean City, Maryland, all social security card applications will take place in Salisbury, MD this year. Students will need transportation to Salisbury and they should check with the Students Centers who may offer transport to the Social Security Offices. Distribution of the Social Security Cards will occur on Fridays 8:30am-12 pm at Ocean City Maryland Town hall located on 3rd Street & Baltimore Avenue. For business hours call 410-289-8221.
These are the documents you will need to present to apply for your Social Security card:
All documents must be either originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.
Do not fill in mailing address in the application form to have your Social Security card delivered to Ocean City Town hall.
Once you start working and present your Social Security card, you will get your paychecks weekly or every other week depending on the employer. You are required to have Federal Income Tax and Maryland (State) Tax withheld from your pay. The taxes you should not pay are as follows:
Provide your employer with this information to ensure proper taxes are withheld. Maryland State tax is withheld from your pay unless you fill a Form 507. Ask your employer for more information. You will usually be able to apply for a refund of your taxes withheld after the year you visit and work in the USA.
Make a copy of each document and keep it in safe place. You are required to have your passport (or other form of US I. D.) with you all the time.
Useful tips:
Bank Account
To manage your savings and expenses in a safe manner, you will need to open a bank account. Search different bank branches in the area to find “Free Students Accounts” so you do not need to worry about bank fees. Ask about any additional fees (minimum balance, opening fee, closing fee and transfer fee for sending money home) In Ocean City MD you will find that BB&T Bank and Bank of America offer services which will provide you with the best service for your needs. DO NOT KEEP large sums of cash on your person or at your apartment. Open a bank account at your earliest opportunity to ensure it is in a safe place during your stay.
In case you want to save as much money as possible and do not expect any higher payments or expenses, choose “saving accounts”. In general, you get an ATM card to make deposits and withdrawals through ATM.
Otherwise, choose “checking account”. You will then be able to get a check card (debit card) which can be used in various places and for online internet shopping. The use of a (debit card) is very helpful for shopping locally and making purchases over the internet during your stay. A checking account book with checks can be also provided, giving you the ability to make payments for expenses such as rental payments with a check during your stay.
To open an account, fill in the application in the bank branch convenient to your housing or place of employment location. and be prepared to provide the following documents:
Be aware that in case you make a check deposit, (depositing a paycheck from your employer) it will not be available for immediate withdrawal. It usually takes for up to 2-3 business days. If you need money from your check immediately, ask to “cash the check”. If you have an account with the bank, you will get the full check amount without any fees charged; otherwise additional fees usually $5 for cashing the check may apply if you desire to cash the check at a bank where you do not have an banking account.
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