what is the best way to acquire an SSN

It depends upon what immigration status you are holding whether you can obtain a Social Security card. The usual route for someone who is not holding permanent residence or a nonimmigrant status automatically giving work privileges is to apply for and obtain an employment authorization document (EAD) from USCIS through the filing of form I-765 Application for Employment Authorization. That of course is based upon whether you can qualify under any of the categories. With an EAD, you would be able to request the Social Security Administration for a Social Security card. If unable to qualify, and if you do not have a taxpayer identification number already which allows you to pay taxes but does not give work authorization, you can apply for such with the IRS. Instructions on how to apply are on the IRS website at https://www.irs.gov/individuals/how-do-i-apply-for-an-itin. Due to the limitations of the Lawyers.com Forums, Alan Lee & Arthur Lee, Esqs.’ (the "Firm") participation in responding to questions posted herein does not constitute legal advice, nor legal representation of the person or entity posting a question. No Attorney/Client relationship is or shall be construed to be created hereby. The information provided herein by the Firm is general, and requires that the poster obtain specific legal advice from an attorney. The poster shall not rely upon the information provided herein as legal advice nor as the basis for making any decisions of legal consequence.