Get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number ITIN to file your tax return

If you qualify for our assistance, which is always free, we will do everything possible to help you. ITIN holders must verify their identity through the video chat process and will need a valid email address, proof of ITIN, one primary document and one secondary document. Taxpayers with an ITIN can complete the registration process to access their IRS online account, which provides balance due, payment history, payment plans, tax records, and more. You may be able to request a certified copy of documents at an embassy or consulate. However, services may vary between countries, so we recommend that you contact the appropriate consulate or embassy for specific information. A current passport would meet all these requirements and is the only document you can submit on its own.

ITINs do NOT provide legal status or work authorization.

But due to potential processing delays, it’s advisable that you add some extra wiggle room. This is especially true if you’re mailing your ITIN application to the U.S. from overseas as an expat or non-resident. As the name implies, an ITIN is a dedicated tax ID number that allows individuals to report their earnings, expenses and deductions to the IRS. These unique numbers are reserved for U.S. taxpayers who are unable to obtain a traditional Social Security number. Note, however, that having an ITIN doesn’t necessarily qualify one to work or reside in the United States.

Forms & Instructions

If you have or are eligible to obtain a social security number, you are not eligible for an ITIN. The taxpayer Bill of Rights is grouped into 10 easy to understand categories outlining the taxpayer rights and protections embedded in the tax code. For more information see Allowable Tax Benefits in the Instructions for Form W-7 PDF. To learn about our professional expat tax preparation services, schedule a free consultation with us today.

A certified copy is one that the original issuing agency provides, and certifies as an exact copy of the original, and contains an official stamped seal from the agency. Certifying Acceptance Agents and many Taxpayer Assistance Centers, discussed below, may also certify certain documents. When you open a checking account or a savings account, you’ll need to verify your identity. You can do this with an SSN or an ITIN, but some banks will also accept other forms of ID.

Q17: How long will the return be delayed in processing, if it’s filed with an expired ITIN?

Dependents of U.S. military personnel can submit original documents, certified copies or notarized copies of identification documents. If you need to renew your ITIN, you’ll follow the same process as applying for a new ITIN. However, if you mail in your renewal application, you can simply send along a form W-7 with supporting documents—no need to attach a tax return. It serves no other purpose aside from federal tax reporting.

What do I do if my name has changed since I received my ITIN?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service. An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is a tax processing number issued by the IRS. The purpose of an ITIN is to ensure those who work in the U.S. have a method of paying taxes, even if they don’t qualify for a Social Security number (SSN) from the Social Security Administration. Low Income Taxpayer Clinics (LITCs) are independent from the IRS and TAS. LITCs represent individuals whose income is below a certain level and who need investment income taxes to resolve tax problems with the IRS.

1. For more information see Allowable Tax Benefits in the Instructions for Form W-7 PDF.
2. The IRS clarifies that you need either an ITIN or an SSN to get the Child Tax Credit.
3. You can apply for an ITIN any time during the year when you have a filing or reporting requirement.
4. LITCs can represent taxpayers in audits, appeals, and tax collection disputes before the IRS and in court.
5. This will prevent you from having to mail your proof of identity and foreign status documents.
6. Many applicants have reported that IRS lost their passports or other valuable and hard-to-replace identification documents.

These numbers only exist for federal tax reporting purposes. If you’re required to file a tax return and aren’t eligible for a Social Security number, you need to apply for an ITIN (See the What should I do? section, above). The advantage to using CAAs is that for primary and secondary applicants (like a spouse), the CAA can certify that your documents are original and make copies to send to the IRS. That way, you won’t have to mail your originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.

These might include a passport number or other government-issued ID number. You will receive a letter from the IRS assigning your tax identification number usually within seven weeks if you qualify for an ITIN and your application is complete. You will only file a tax return to the address above once, when you file Form W-7 to get an ITIN. In subsequent years, when you have an ITIN, you will file your tax return as directed in the form instructions. The Taxpayer Advocate Service is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers and protects taxpayers’ rights.