Everything You Need to Know About Your ITIN
Welcome to your essential guide to the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you’re a non-resident, a foreign investor, or an individual with U.S. tax filing requirements but not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN), understanding the ITIN is your first step toward U.S. tax compliance. Let us, your trusted legal and tax professionals, demystify this critical process for you
Secure Your ITIN with Expert Guidance
Securing your ITIN requires careful preparation and adherence to strict IRS guidelines. As an experienced legal service, we ensure your application is complete, accurate, and professionally submitted through our legal team, often leveraging the expertise of a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) to simplify the document verification process.
Choose the professional package that suits your needs. Our service includes a professional review by our legal team, document certification support, and direct submission to the IRS.
Individual ITIN
Application for one ITIN applicant (Form W-7). Expert review and preparation. Document certification support.
Spouse/Dependent ITIN
Application for a spouse or dependent ITIN applicant (W-7). Must be filled with Primary ITIN Application.
Family ITIN Bundle
Application for two or more family members (e.g., primary applicant + spouse/dependents). Best for Multiple ITINs.
Key Questions and Answers
A Comprehensive Guide for Startups
What is an ITIN?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a unique, nine-digit tax processing number issued by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is designed for individuals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number for federal tax purposes but do not have, and are not eligible to obtain, a Social Security Number (SSN).
- Tax Compliance: Its primary function is to help non-residents and other foreign individuals comply with U.S. tax laws by providing a number to file returns and report income.
- Not an SSN: An ITIN does not authorize you to work in the U.S., provide eligibility for Social Security benefits, or change your immigration status.
Who Needs an ITIN?
You need an ITIN if you are an individual who is not eligible for an SSN and has a U.S. tax filing requirement.
This typically includes:
| Category | Example Scenarios |
Resident Aliens |
Filing a U.S. tax return based on the Substantial Presence Test, but ineligible for an SSN. |
Non-Resident Aliens | Filing a U.S. tax return, claiming a tax treaty benefit, or receiving U.S.-sourced income (e.g., rental income). |
Spouse or Dependent | Claimed as a spouse or dependent on a U.S. tax return by a U.S. Citizen, Resident Alien, or Non-Resident Alien. |
| Other | Individuals selling U.S. real estate, or foreign individuals opening a U.S. bank account for interest-bearing investments (in some cases). |
The Professional ITIN Application Process in 5 Steps
Consultation & Information Gathering
We determine your eligibility and the necessary supporting documentation based on your specific tax purpose. You’ll complete our secure online questionnaire.
Form W-7 Preparation
Our legal team professionally prepares your Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, ensuring all required fields and boxes are accurately completed for your application reason.
Required Tax Return Preparation (If Applicable)
For most applicants, an ITIN must be accompanied by a federal tax return. We prepare the necessary tax form (e.g., Form 1040-NR) to complete your application package.
Identity Document Verification
This is the most critical step. If you work with us and a CAA, we can typically certify your original passport or other identity documents. This means you do not have to mail your originals to the IRS, protecting your important documents.
Submission and Tracking
We assemble the complete package—Form W-7, the tax return, and the certified documentation—and submit it directly to the IRS ITIN Operations. We track the application and notify you as soon as your ITIN is issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the ITIN process take?
Typically, the IRS takes 7 to 11 weeks to process an ITIN application and mail you a letter with your assigned ITIN. Processing can take longer during peak tax season (January to April) or if you are applying from outside the U.S
What documents do I need for an ITIN application?
The most common and preferred document is a valid, unexpired passport, as it proves both your identity and foreign status. If you do not have a passport, you’ll need a combination of at least two other documents (e.g., national ID card, foreign driver’s license, birth certificate, school records for dependents) as outlined in the Form W-7 instructions.
Do I need to renew my ITIN?
Yes. If your ITIN is not used on a federal tax return for three consecutive tax years, it will expire. Additionally, ITINs with middle digits 70, 71, 72, 73, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, or 87 have already expired on a rolling basis and require renewal.
Can a business apply for an ITIN?
No. An ITIN is only for individuals. Businesses that need a U.S. tax ID must apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN), regardless of their entity type (e.g., LLC, Corporation).