ITIN expiration FAQs Internal Revenue Service

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. 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. 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. Sending important documents makes most people feel uneasy.

If I cannot get the documents I need to apply for an ITIN, can I apply for a Social Security number instead?

In lieu of sending original documentation, you may use an IRS authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) or make an appointment at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) location. To find a local CAA in your area, you can visit Acceptance Agent Program. CAAs can authenticate all the identification documents for the primary and secondary applicant. For dependents, they can authenticate the passport and civil birth certificate; however, they must send the original or certified copies of all other documents directly to the IRS. Apply for an ITIN in-person using the services of an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent. This will prevent you from having to mail your proof of identity and foreign status documents.

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. These numbers only exist for federal tax reporting purposes. They don’t entitle the taxpayer to Social Security benefits, stimulus payments, or other benefits. I mailed my ITIN application (W-7, tax return etc) to the IRS and was wondering what the processing time currently is for this.

Where to apply?

You can file Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), with your federal income tax what is the difference between negative assurance and positive assurance return. You must also include original documentation or certified copies from the issuing agency to prove identity and foreign status. They are issued regardless of immigration status, because both resident and nonresident aliens may have a U.S. filing or reporting requirement under the Internal Revenue Code.

Expanded discussion of allowable tax benefit

To apply for an ITIN, complete IRS Form W-7, IRS Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Form W-7 requires documentation substantiating foreign/alien status and true identity for each individual. An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service. 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.

If you qualify for an exception, then file Form W-7 with your proof of identity and foreign status documents and supporting documentation for the exception. For people who want to be granted US citizenship or permanent legal residence, filing a tax return is an important first step in demonstrating your “moral character” to the government. And acquiring an ITIN allows anyone — including nonresidents and undocumented immigrants — to file and pay their taxes. An ITIN may be assigned to an alien dependent from Canada or Mexico if that dependent qualifies a taxpayer for a child or dependent care credit (claimed on Form 2441). The Form 2441 must be attached to Form W-7 along with the U.S. federal tax return. All Form W-7 applications, including renewals, must include a U.S. federal tax return unless you meet an exception to the filing requirement.

Original documents will be returned to the address on record after processing your application. The IRS is currently processing Form W-7s within 11 weeks after receipt. We are taking every action to minimize delays, and we are processing requests in the order they were received.

1. The letter will list your ITIN number and give you instructions on how to use it.
2. Only a Social Security Number qualifies you to receive Social Security and other government benefits.
3. This way, the IRS will be able to match the tax return in their system.
4. The IRS releases the tax season’s start date every year.

These documents will not be accepted for ITIN applications. Dependents of U.S. military personnel can submit original documents, certified copies or notarized copies of identification documents. Once the package is assembled, attach the Form W-7 to the front of your first-ever US federal income tax return, along with the supporting documents.