ITIN Frequently Asked Questions

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a 9-digit tax processing number issued by the IRS. It is assigned to individuals who need to file US taxes but are not eligible for a Social Security Number. This includes non-resident aliens, their spouses, and dependents. The format is 9XX-XX-XXXX.

Non-US residents who earn income in the United States or have US tax filing obligations need an ITIN. This includes Amazon sellers, freelancers working with US clients, real estate investors with US property, international students with US income, H-4 visa dependents, and anyone who needs to file a US tax return but cannot get a Social Security Number.

An SSN (Social Security Number) is for US citizens and authorized permanent residents. An ITIN is for people who need a US tax ID but are not eligible for an SSN. Both are 9 digits, but ITINs always begin with the number 9. An ITIN cannot be used for employment authorization. It is strictly for tax purposes.

An ITIN identifies an individual person for tax purposes. An EIN (Employer Identification Number) identifies a business entity. Many non-US entrepreneurs need both: an ITIN for personal tax filing and an EIN for their US business. They serve completely different purposes.

You apply by completing IRS Form W-7 and submitting it with your identity documents. The fastest method is through an IRS-authorized Acceptance Agent (like itin.so) who certifies your documents so you do not need to mail your original passport. You can also mail your application directly to the IRS or visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center in person.

You need a completed Form W-7, proof of identity (a passport is the simplest option), proof of foreign status, and a valid reason for needing an ITIN (such as a tax return or W-8BEN form). The IRS accepts 13 types of identity documents, but a passport is the only standalone document that proves both identity and foreign status.

Yes. Most ITIN applicants live outside the US. You can apply by mail or through an IRS-authorized Acceptance Agent. Our service at itin.so handles the entire process online, so you never need to visit a US office. We prepare your W-7, review your documents, and submit everything to the IRS on your behalf.

Not if you use an IRS-authorized Acceptance Agent. An Acceptance Agent certifies your identity documents so you can keep your originals. If you apply by mail without an Acceptance Agent, you would need to send your original passport to the IRS, which takes 6-11 weeks to be returned. This is one of the main reasons people use services like ours.

A Certifying Acceptance Agent is a person or organization authorized by the IRS to verify identity documents for ITIN applications. CAAs can certify copies of your passport and other documents so you do not need to send originals to the IRS. This is the safest and fastest way to apply for an ITIN.

There are two parts to the timeline. First, your application needs to be prepared and submitted. Our Standard service takes 7-10 business days, Express takes 2-3 business days. Second, the IRS processes your application, which currently takes 6-11 weeks. The IRS timeline is the same regardless of how you apply.

The IRS does not charge a fee for the ITIN itself. However, professional preparation services typically cost $200 to $400+. At itin.so, our Standard service is $197 (7-10 day preparation) and Express is $297 (2-3 day preparation). We are consistently more affordable and faster than other providers.

You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to check your ITIN status. You will need to provide your name, date of birth, and the address used on your W-7 form. The IRS does not offer online ITIN status checking. Our Express customers receive WhatsApp updates throughout the process.

The IRS sends a rejection notice explaining why your application was denied. Common reasons include incomplete Form W-7, insufficient identity documents, or not meeting eligibility requirements. You can reapply by correcting the issues. Our Express service includes a money-back guarantee if the IRS declines due to our preparation error.

Yes. Many US banks accept an ITIN as identification for opening accounts. Mercury, Wise, Relay, and several traditional banks allow ITIN holders to open personal and business accounts. An ITIN is often the first step for non-US residents who need US banking access.

Yes. Several US credit card issuers accept ITIN holders, typically starting with secured credit cards. This allows non-US residents to build a US credit history, which is useful for future mortgage applications, business financing, and more.

No. An ITIN does not provide work authorization in the United States. It is strictly a tax processing number. If you need to work legally in the US, you need an SSN, which requires proper work authorization (such as an employment-based visa or green card).

Yes. ITINs that have not been used on a federal tax return at least once in the last three consecutive tax years expire on December 31 of the third year. ITINs with middle digits 70-88 have already expired under a rolling expiration schedule. Expired ITINs can be renewed.

Yes. You renew an ITIN by filing a new Form W-7 with the renewal box checked and submitting updated identity documents. The process is similar to the original application. Our ITIN renewal service handles the entire process for $97.

Yes. Multiple US lenders offer mortgage products to ITIN holders. Requirements vary by lender, but typically you need an ITIN, proof of income, a US bank account, and a down payment (often 15-25%). ITIN mortgages are common for real estate investors and immigrants.

Yes. Filing taxes is the primary purpose of an ITIN. You use your ITIN in place of an SSN on your tax return. Non-resident aliens use Form 1040-NR, while resident aliens use the standard Form 1040. An ITIN is required to file and to claim any applicable tax treaty benefits.