An ITIN is a 9-digit number the IRS issues to people who need a U.S. taxpayer identification number for federal tax purposes but aren't eligible for a Social Security number (SSN).
Resident and nonresident aliens (and their spouses or dependents) who must file a U.S. return, want to claim a refund or allowable credit, or need a tax ID for another federal tax purpose — regardless of immigration status.
We complete Form W-7 accurately and attach it to your federal tax return — the IRS requires them to be filed together in most cases. Incomplete or mismatched applications are a leading cause of rejection.
An ITIN expires if it isn't used on a federal return for 3 consecutive years. If yours expired, we prepare the renewal W-7 with your return so your refund and credits aren't delayed.
The IRS accepts only originals or copies certified by the issuing agency — notarized copies are not accepted. We tell you exactly which of the 13 acceptable documents apply to your situation before anything is mailed.
Spouses and dependents can get ITINs when they're claimed for an allowable tax benefit. Dependents generally also need proof of U.S. residency — we make sure the right records are included.
Filing with an ITIN can open the door to the Credit for Other Dependents, Child & Dependent Care Credit, American Opportunity Credit, Premium Tax Credit, and joint or head-of-household filing — when you qualify.
We confirm you actually need an ITIN, check whether an existing one expired, and identify every family member who should apply.
We prepare your federal return and Form W-7 application package together — including renewals and applications for your spouse and dependents.
We verify your identity documents meet IRS rules, then the package is submitted to the IRS ITIN Operation — by mail or through an in-person IRS option.
The IRS typically responds in about 7 weeks (9–11 weeks during peak season January 15 – April 30 or from abroad). Your return is processed with the new ITIN.
Your application must prove both identity and foreign status, using original documents or copies certified by the issuing agency.
If you submit a valid passport (or a certified copy), no other documents are needed. For dependents, a passport with a U.S. date of entry can also prove U.S. residency.
One must prove identity and one must prove foreign status, and at least one must show your photo (exceptions for dependents under 14, or under 18 if a student).
Depending on age: U.S. medical records, school records, state ID, driver's license, visa, or for adults a U.S. bank statement, rental statement, or utility bill in the applicant's name.
Direct links to IRS.gov — the official forms and guides for ITIN applications and renewals.
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is a 9-digit number the IRS issues to people who need a U.S. taxpayer ID for federal tax purposes but aren't eligible for a Social Security number. It always starts with the digit 9 and is used only within the federal tax system.
Yes. Resident aliens, nonresident aliens, and their spouses and dependents can apply for an ITIN regardless of immigration status, as long as there's a federal tax purpose — such as being required to file, claiming a refund, or being claimed for an allowable tax benefit.
An ITIN does not authorize you to work in the U.S., does not provide or change immigration status, does not qualify you for Social Security benefits or the Earned Income Tax Credit, and does not serve as ID outside the federal tax system.
You complete Form W-7 and submit it with your federal tax return and identity documents — by mail to the IRS ITIN Operation in Austin, or in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (by appointment) or through a Certifying Acceptance Agent. We prepare the entire package for you so it's right the first time.
The IRS says to allow about 7 weeks for a decision — and 9 to 11 weeks if you apply during peak season (January 15 through April 30) or from abroad. Mailed original documents are returned within about 60 days.
Yes. If an ITIN isn't used on a federal tax return for three consecutive tax years, it expires on December 31 after the third year of non-use. An expired ITIN can delay your refund and cost you credits — renew it with your next return.
A valid passport by itself is enough. Without one, you need two documents from the IRS's list of 13 — one proving identity and one proving foreign status, at least one with a photo. Documents must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Notarized copies are not accepted.
Not necessarily. You can submit a copy certified by the issuing agency, or apply in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center where most documents are reviewed and returned at the appointment. We'll help you pick the option that keeps your documents safest.
Yes — when they're claimed for an allowable tax benefit or file their own return. Dependents usually must also prove U.S. residency with records like school or medical records, a state ID, or for adults a bank statement or utility bill showing a U.S. address.
Depending on your situation: filing jointly with your spouse, head of household status, the Credit for Other Dependents ($500), the Child and Dependent Care Credit, the American Opportunity education credit, and the Premium Tax Credit. We check every one you qualify for.
You can't have both. Once you receive an SSN, stop using the ITIN and notify the IRS so your tax records are combined under the SSN — otherwise you may not get credit for wages and taxes already paid, which can reduce your refunds.
Yes. You don't need an ITIN to request a filing extension (Form 4868) or to make estimated payments — you simply write "ITIN TO BE REQUESTED" where the number would go. We can handle this for you when deadlines are close.
Fill out this quick form. After you submit, you'll pick a time for your free consultation covering the W-7, your tax return, and exactly which documents to bring.