<p>Umm so I got here today (Atlanta, GA) and I'm looking for a cellphone.
I was looking for the best contracts until I found out that I actually need a Social Security Number in order to have any. Then this guy at Sony told me that Sprint is the only one that doesn't require a SSN (just make up any number), and all u need is a mailing address (btw I don't live in the US, nor am I a citizen, so I don't have a SSN).</p>
<p>Since I'm not familiar with the city, I don't know any places where I can buy Sprint phones, so I'm thinking it's more practical to order it online...</p>
<p>I think a virgin mobile prepaid phone or some equivalent might be the best bet -- I'm pretty sure that you can pick them up in BestBuy or something...good call CIA</p>
<p>Cell phone companies here in the states use social security numbers for identification purposes, but I highly doubt they're required for everyone. Basically, it's a way of automatically having an ID number for each customer. I wouldn't trust "some guy" who works at Sony for that type of information. There are cell phone stores everywhere that can help you out. Maybe just visit each one and choose the one you're most comfortable with? The major cell phone providers in the US are:</p>
<p>AT&T
Verizon
Sprint
T-Mobile</p>
<p>Maybe if you want to learn about all the providers at once, I would go to a store like Best Buy. That's probably your best option.</p>
<p>I got mine with ATT, which has turned out to be pretty good. They required a $500 deposit, since I don't have a SSN, but they have some kind of contract with the university so it got reduced to 300. Maybe you can find some similar deal</p>
<p>Prepaid provider would be your best bet. Why sign all these 2yr-long contracts?</p>
<p>I use one called PagePlus cellular and pay $0.06/min, using a Verizon InPulse phone activated on the account, purchased for $40. With my 300min/mo usage, my costs come up to approximately $170/yr. Very difficult to get that low with a monthly plan.</p>
<p>In terms of information - the only thing they know about me is my cell phone number. They don't even know my name. ;)</p>
<p>When you get to your school, there might be a fair with vendors. There should be a cell-phone vendor there...and I'm sure they'll be glad to sign you up.</p>