US Bank Account + SSN + Taxes

Hey everyone,

I am a long-time lurker of the forums, but this is my first real post.

Background
I recently re-located from Ottawa Ontario to San Francisco California under a TN Visa. The Visa is through a company-company contract, so I am still technically employed by a Canadian entity. As a result, I am still paid in Canadian dollars that go into my Canadian TD savings and checking accounts (direct deposit).

SSN Question
I received my TN exactly 1 week ago today. When can I apply for my SSN? I have read anywhere from 1-2 weeks after I get my TN (is this in business-days or actual days?).

Banking Question
I have a US Dollar Visa and US Borderless Account through TD. This will allow me to make credit purchases in US dollars and also pay off the card via premium exchange rates. However, it obviously isn't the optimal, long-term solution.

I do need a basic US chequing account and credit card. The account will be used primarily for paying rent, bills, groceries, etc, while my savings remain in Canada. Thus, I would need to transfer $ from my Canadian account to my US account on a bi-monthly schedule. What is the best option/bank for this scenario?

Furthermore, what is the likelihood of actually getting a chequing account and (unsecured) credit card at this point? Should I wait until I get my SSN? I have copies of my Canadian credit history, will that do me any good?

Tax Question
What are the tax implications of being paid by a Canadian company (with deposits into a Canadian account), while working and living in the US? Am I going to get taxed twice? What can be done to alleviate any tax burdens I may face?

Thanks for your help!

forums.serbinski.com

SSN Question
I received my TN exactly 1 week ago today. When can I apply for my SSN?You apply at the Social Security office in person. You will definitely need your passport with TN & any offers of employment from the company. I have read anywhere from 1-2 weeks after I get my TN (is this in business-days or actual days?).

Furthermore, what is the likelihood of actually getting a chequing account and (unsecured) credit card at this point? Should I wait until I get my SSN?You must wait until you get your SSN. You cannot open a US bank acct without one. Credit cards unsecured are extremely difficult to get as a Canadian. We have been here 9 months on an L1A Visa. We got a mortgage & a car laond and STILL can't get an unsecured credit card. I have copies of my Canadian credit history, will that do me any good? Absolutely not. They don't give a rat's patootie.As far as they're concerned, you'd have been better to declare bankruptcy! For our mortgage, they wanted our Canadian credit history but did not take it into account at all and we had to put down a huge amount to secure the mortgage, as if we had abdsolutely no credit history.

Good luck.Dealing with US banking is one of the more "fun" aspects of being a Canadian in the USA.