“What is itin?” This question is undoubtedly frequently asked by people who will file a tax return in the US. So much so that many internet searches include searches such as “define itin“. The reason for this increasing interest in ITIN is the dreams of individuals to establish a life in the US.
In this guide, we wanted to compile comprehensive answers to the question “what is itin?”. You can find the answers to questions such as “Whats an itin?” or “What is an ITIN used for?” in this article.
Contents
What is ITIN? – Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
The ITIN number is the identification number for individuals to fulfill their tax obligations. This number is a nine-digit provided by the IRS for your tax return. It always starts with the number 9. This number is assigned to individuals who are taxpayers in the United States but do not or cannot have a Social Security number (SSN).
ITIN number is assigned regardless of immigration status. Because both people living in the United States and those living outside the United States may have tax responsibilities in the United States. The condition of ITIN application and obtaining a number is that individuals must have a tax liability in the United States and must file a federal tax return.
Who Needs an ITIN and Why?
The ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is used by individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number but still need to file taxes or report income in the U.S. It allows the IRS to process tax returns and ensure compliance.
Applicants for an ITIN generally fall into three main categories. First, non-resident aliens who earn income in the U.S. but are not eligible for a Social Security Number must obtain an ITIN to file a tax return.
Second, resident aliens who meet the substantial presence test based on the number of days they have been in the U.S. may also require an ITIN for tax purposes. Lastly, dependents or spouses of U.S. citizens or visa holders often need an ITIN to be claimed on a tax return or to meet their own tax filing obligations.
What is ITIN Number in US?
IRS (Internal Revenue Service) is an institution that provides services within the scope of ITIN and tax returns. Within the framework of US Federal tax laws, it is required for people who want to be included in the tax system to have an ITIN. Of course, ITIN is a number that people who do not have an SSN must obtain. People who have an SSN do not need to apply for an ITIN.
| Benefit | Description |
| Tax Filing and Refund Eligibility | ITIN holders can file tax returns, claim credits (like the Child Tax Credit), and receive refunds. |
| Access to Financial Services | A valid ITIN allows individuals to open bank accounts, build credit, and manage finances securely. |
| Establishing Residency and Records | Using an ITIN helps create a legal paper trail in the U.S., useful for immigration and credit history. |
What is ITIN Number Used for?
“What is itin?” And what is this 9-digit number used for? The ITIN number is used for federal tax reporting purposes only. The IRS assigns the ITIN number to people in the United States who do not have a Social Security Number. This is to help these individuals comply with American tax laws.
So, who needs an ITIN application? The IRS has made it easier for foreign citizens and other citizens who have federal tax filing requirements but do not have a Social Security Number (SSN) to obtain an ITIN. For example, you live or are in America for a reason. For this, you have to pay tax on your earnings in some way. Also, as a taxpayer in the United States, you must obtain an ITIN number to qualify for a tax refund.
Other people who need an ITIN number are as follows:
- Foreigners who have tax liability in the USA but do not live in the USA
- Foreigners living in the United States, whose tax liability is based on the number of days they stay in the United States
- Family members of an American citizen or a foreigner living in the United States
- Family members of a foreigner who is not a US citizen but holds a US visa
- Those who need payment systems such as PayPal and Stripe
What is ITIN vs SSN?
We can also give clear answers to the question “What is itin?” by comparing it with the SSN.
| What is ITIN Number? | What is SSN? |
| ITIN is the abbreviation for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. | SSN stands for Social Security Number. |
| ITINs are issued to non-US citizens for tax returns. | US citizens can perform various official transactions by obtaining an SSN. |
| Non-residents of the United States can also apply for an ITIN. | SSNs are only issued to individuals who are not US citizens or permanent residents in very rare cases. |
What is ITIN vs EIN?
The question of What is EIN also comes to mind frequently. EIN stands for Employer Identification Number. Although these two numbers undertake similar tasks, they are actually quite different from each other:
| What is ITIN Number? | What is an EIN Number? |
| As the name suggests, it is an individual number. | It is a number obtained on behalf of a company, institution or employee. |
| Used for tax declaration. | It is used for tax declaration and other financial transactions related to the company. |
| Some banks allow you to open an individual account with an ITIN. | Some banks allow you to open a company account with an EIN. |
How to Get ITIN Number?
To obtain the ITIN number, you must complete the W-7 itin form, available through the IRS, completely and following the specified legislation. Afterward, for the ITIN application, you need to write a petition introducing your company and you to the IRS officer, have a copy of your passport notarized and send it to the IRS with the original, stamped, and other documents.
Within 12 weeks, on average, after your application has been approved, a notification including your ITIN number will be sent by the IRS. Obtaining an ITIN number is somewhat complicated. With our professional team, obtaining your ITIN number is easily completed for you. If you apply after the establishment of the company, we will start the ITIN application process immediately and send you your digital ITIN number within 10-14 weeks. You can easily contact us to obtain your ITIN number and to receive services on many other issues.
How to Get ITIN Number for Non Resident?
The question “What is a ITIN?” needs to be answered in terms of the concept of non-resident. People who do not have a residence permit in the US can also obtain an ITIN if necessary. To do this, it is sufficient to follow the same steps. It is important to fill out the W-7 Form completely and submit it to the IRS.
How to Check My ITIN Status Online?
In addition to the question of what is itin?, it is also important how you can learn your ITIN status. What you need to do in this regard is to visit the official website of the IRS. In light of the information here, you can learn your ITIN status and decide whether to renew it or not.
How to Apply for an ITIN Number: Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for an ITIN begins with gathering the necessary documentation. You’ll need to collect valid proof of identity and foreign status—typically a passport or a combination of government-issued documents. The core of your application is IRS Form W-7, which must be completed accurately and submitted alongside your original documents or certified copies. Double-check all entries to avoid delays caused by errors or missing information.
Once your documents are ready, you can submit your application in one of three ways: by mail directly to the IRS, through an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), or in person at designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers.
EIN ITIN is the best choice fort his process. After submission, it generally takes 7 to 11 weeks for the IRS to process your application. If approved, your ITIN will arrive by mail and can be used immediately for tax filing, opening financial accounts, or fulfilling other identification-related needs.
Documents Required for ITIN Application
To successfully apply for an ITIN, applicants must submit specific documents that verify both their identity and foreign status.
| Document Type | Acceptable Documents |
| Proof of Identity | A passport, national ID, U.S. visa, or birth certificate |
| Supporting Foreign Status Evidence | ID cards or foreign driver’s licenses |
| Translating and Certifying Documents | Notarized or embassy-certified translations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
In this part of our article, in addition to the question “What is itin?”, you will find answers to other frequently asked questions.
What is ITIN stand for?
ITIN stands for Individual Taxpayer ID Number. This number is 9 digits long and is given to the individual by service irs.
Is ITIN the same as SSN?
No. The irs issues SSNs to U.S. citizens or individuals with work authorization.
Can a Non Us citizen get an ITIN number?
Questions like these are asked as much as the question “What is itin?”. Non-US citizens should get an ITIN instead of an SSN.
How Long Does It Take to Get an ITIN?
On average, ITIN processing takes 7–11 weeks. Processing may take longer during tax season or if documents are incomplete.
