Taxes are complicated, and they get even more complicated when you have international factors in play. How do resident aliens and other noncitizens comply with US tax rules when filing taxes require a social security number (SSN)? The solution to that is the “Individual Taxpayer Identification Number” (ITIN) issued by the IRS.
What’s the ITIN?
An ITIN helps individuals who are not eligible to obtain SSNs comply with federal tax filing requirements. They can’t be used for claiming social security benefits or the earned income credit. Essentially, it’s an ID number given by the IRS to help noncitizens fulfill tax requirements.
Individuals unable to obtain an SSN qualify for the ITIN. This includes spouses and dependents of US citizens.
For example:
Heather, a US citizen, marries a man from overseas, Roberto. It may take years for Roberto to obtain citizenship, but the couple must file income tax annually. They will need to obtain an ITIN for Roberto in the meantime so that they can file a joint tax return.
Obtaining an ITIN
To obtain an ITIN, applicants must complete a W-7 form and submit it to the IRS by mail. The form asks for things such as name, foreign address, and original documents such as a passport. They do not want copies. Processing time typically takes 4-6 weeks. Within that time frame, a mailed notice gets sent out to the applicant notifying that their ITIN has been assigned, OR their application was rejected and a reason why it was rejected.
Certified Acceptance Agents and speeding up the process
The IRS authorizes “Certifying Acceptance Agents” (CAAs) throughout the country to assist with the processing of ITINs. Utilizing a CAA can help applicants navigate the complicated ITIN process and avoid mailing sensitive documents, such as passports.
Guided by a CAA and years of experience helping clients, myITINApp can help YOU obtain an ITIN in a streamlined, efficient process. Want to get started?
myITINapp Editorial Team
The myITINapp Editorial Team helps make ITIN applications and U.S. tax requirements easier to understand, with straightforward guidance based on trusted sources like the IRS.
