ITIN

How Can Non-U.S. Citizens Get an ITIN Number?

How Can Non-U.S. Citizens Get an ITIN Number?

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, ITIN Number, is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Non-U.S. citizens who have federal tax reporting requirements but are not eligible to receive a Social Security Number (SSN) may obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

There are some specific ways to obtain an ITIN number for non-US citizens. To obtain an ITIN, non-US citizens must:

Fill out Form W-7

and Collect Required Documents.

Attach Tax Return (if required)

Submit Application to IRS:

Wait for Tracking and Processing

Non-US Citizens should ensure that they follow the instructions carefully and provide all necessary documentation to avoid delays or problems with their ITIN application.

What is ITIN?

ITIN Number refers to The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. This number is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and it has nine digits. ITIN number is only used for tax issues. ITIN helps taxpayers comply with U.S. tax regulations by facilitating the efficient processing and tracking of tax returns and payments for individuals who are not eligible to receive a Social Security number.

  • Nonresident aliens who must file a U.S. tax return.
  • U.S. resident aliens who must file U.S. tax returns based on days spent in the United States.
  • Dependents or spouses of U.S. citizens or resident aliens.
  • Dependents or spouses of non-resident foreign visa holders.
  • Non-resident aliens claiming tax treaty benefits.
  • Nonresident foreign students, professors, or researchers who file U.S. tax returns or claim exemptions can apply for an ITIN.

What is ITIN Number Used for in the USA?

The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is exclusively designated for federal tax reporting purposes. Individuals who are eligible to fulfill U.S. tax obligations and file individual tax returns and accounts can obtain an ITIN number from the IRS.

Obtaining or applying for an ITIN does not grant authorization to work in the USA. Nevertheless, possessing an ITIN enables individuals to become partners or owners of companies within the United States. It’s important to note that having an ITIN does not provide eligibility for social security benefits or earned income tax credits.

Importance of ITIN Application

Applying for an ITIN is important for individuals who are not eligible to receive a Social Security Number (SSN) but have tax obligations or other financial activities in the United States. ITIN is required to comply with US tax laws. Among the reasons that make the ITIN application important:

Tax Compliance: ITIN Number allows individuals to file tax returns, report income, and meet other tax obligations as required by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Access to Tax Benefits: Having an ITIN allows individuals to access all the tax benefits they are entitled to, including credits, deductions, and exemptions outlined in the U.S. tax code.

Legal Documents: ITIN provides individuals with an identification number that they can use for a variety of financial transactions.

Avoiding Tax Withholding: Without an ITIN or SSN, individuals may be subject to tax withholding on income earned in the United States, resulting in financial loss.

Compliance with Financial Institutions: Many financial institutions require the provision of a taxpayer identification number when conducting financial transactions. 

Access to Services: Possession of an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number may be required to access certain services or benefits provided by government agencies, educational institutions, or other organizations in the United States.

Which documents are Required?

The IRS has designated 13 specific documents as necessary for obtaining an ITIN.

All of the documents must include a name and photograph. Applying for an ITINs must be submitted in person to the IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or CAA.

Required documents for obtaining an ITIN;

  • Passport (stand-alone document)
  • National identity card (must have a photo, name, current address, date of birth, and expiration date)
  • US driver’s license
  • Civil birth certificate (required for dependents under 18)
  • Foreign driver’s license
  • US state ID card
  • Foreign voter registration card
  • US military ID card
  • Foreign military ID card
  • Visa
  • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) photo identification
  • Medical records (dependents only – under 6 years old)
  • School records (dependents only – under 14, under 18 if student)

Additional documentation may be required to fulfill the verification process.

Among these documents

E-mail address

Smartphone or computer with camera

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number number

Proof of ITIN: CP565 Statement or bank statement showing full ITIN

Two additional documents: one primary document and one secondary document or two primary documents; One of them needs to prove your address

How to get ITIN number for non-resident?

Non-resident individuals who lack eligibility for a Social Security Number (SSN) yet have a U.S. federal tax reporting obligation can seek an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Non-U.S. citizens are required to fill out Form W-7, which is the Application for an IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, to obtain an ITIN. Alongside the completed Form W-7, applicants must submit identification documents and a federal tax return or other pertinent documentation indicating the necessary federal tax purpose. Information regarding the essential documents can be accessed on the IRS website.

Those documents include a passport, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) photo identification, or other acceptable documents listed in the form instructions.

Depending on the situation, the nonresident may be required to file a federal tax return such as Form 1040-NR.

How to get the ITIN number for the child?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) application can be submitted for a child. It is crucial to ensure that the child applying does not qualify for a Social Security Number (SSN) and fulfills other essential criteria. If the child meets these requirements, the form process remains the same as for other applicants. Additionally, the form for the child’s ITIN  may be associated with the tax return of the parent or guardian, particularly if the child is claimed as a dependent.

How to get an ITIN Number for free?

The application process for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) directly through the IRS is provided at no cost. However, applicants have the option to seek assistance from Certified Acceptance Agents (CAAs) or other authorized representatives, who typically charge a fee for their services. While it is common for applicants to seek guidance from these authorized services during the form process, it’s important to note that the fees charged by these representatives are unrelated to the Internal Revenue Service