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. In the United States, every person who has taxable income has to file an annual tax return with the IRS, or Internal Revenue Service. To help the agency keep track of the millions of filers every year, each taxpayer needs a unique tax ID number on their return. Applicants who meet one of the exceptions to the requirement to file a tax return (see the Instructions for Form W-7) must provide documentation to support the exception. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, learn how to get and use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file a federal tax return.
What is an Individual Tax ID Number?
For more information please see the Social Security Administration website. 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. At Expat CPA, we specialize in helping non-residents, US citizens and expats remain compliant with the latest IRS tax codes. In addition to dedicated support for W-7 form instruction, we can also help you determine your expat eligibility for Social Security and other federal benefits.
How to file your federal tax return using an ITIN
- The letter will list your ITIN number and give you instructions on how to use it.
- For more information see Allowable Tax Benefits in the Instructions for Form W-7 PDF.
- If you do not have a PTIN, you must get one by using the new IRS sign-up system.
- But if you’re a non-citizen, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) still expects you to report taxes every year — for which you’ll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- Choose whether you’re applying or renewingIn the very first section, you’ll be prompted to mark whether you’re renewing an ITIN you already have or applying for a new one.
- But if you want to learn more, read page 10 of IRS Publication 1915.
A Social Security number (SSN) is issued by the SSA whereas all other TINs are issued by the IRS. The IRS clarifies that you need either an ITIN or an SSN to get the Child Tax Credit. Of course, you’ll only receive that credit if meet the other reporting requirements for it. A Social Security number is only issued for citizens and qualifying resident aliens, such as green card holders. This number keeps track of the years you’ve worked in the U.S. and your lifetime earnings. Once you apply for an ITIN, you can expect to hear from the IRS about the status of your application within seven weeks.
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. Be sure to take a selfie for sentimental purposes (optional step). You can leave all the tax ID numbers on your 1040 tax return blank.
Can I get Social Security benefits with an ITIN?
Be sure to enter your date of birth in the order listed on the form — month first, followed by date, and then year at the end. You’ll still have to pay into those programs if you pay self-employment tax. However, you won’t get any of that money back in the form of future benefits — unless, of course, you acquire a Social Security number down the road. Only a Social Security Number qualifies you to receive Social Security and other government benefits. Social Security Numbers are issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA).
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. If you will need your original documents for any purpose within this processing timeframe, you may wish to apply in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center or CAA. You may also basic accounting choose to submit certified copies from the issuing agency instead. Original documents you submit will be returned to you at the mailing address shown on your Form W-7.
For federal agencies
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. 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. 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.