If someone doesn’t meet the criteria of these two tests or has an option to override them, they’re generally considered a nonresident alien by the IRS. It’s also important to note that nonresident aliens claiming tax treaty benefits may also need an ITIN. Like Social Security numbers, the ITIN is also nine digits long. If you’re a qualifying non-resident or a resident alien (green card holder), you, your spouse, and your dependents can receive an ITIN. An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is a tax processing number issued by the IRS. ITINs can expire if they’re not used on a federal tax return at least once every three years.

1. Like Social Security numbers, the ITIN is also nine digits long.
2. Anyone who earns income from the U.S. is required to get a tax ID number, since they’re obligated to pay taxes on what they earn.
3. A certified document is one that the original issuing agency provides and certifies as an exact copy of the original document and contains an official stamped seal from the Agency.
4. It’s also important to note that nonresident aliens claiming tax treaty benefits may also need an ITIN.
5. IRS.gov has a wealth of useful information about the process for non-residents.

However, services may vary between countries, so we recommend that you contact the appropriate consulate or embassy for specific information. As long as you qualify for a refund, and you have filed your taxes correctly, then yes. ITIN holders are no different from SSN holders when it comes to accounting software set-up getting a tax refund. The IRS clarifies that you need either an ITIN or an SSN to get the Child Tax Credit.

When should I apply?

A notarized document is one that the taxpayer provides to a public notary who bears witness to the signing of the official document and affixes a seal assuring coyote buttes that the document is legitimate. Dependents of U.S. military personnel can submit original documents, certified copies or notarized copies of identification documents. Apply for an ITIN in-person using the services of an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent.

ITIN holders do not qualify for such Social Security benefits. If you’re unsure whether you need an ITIN, check with your employer. They will get you the fifo vs lifo: what is the difference answer or let you know where to find it. USA.gov is the new centralized place for finding government benefits for health care, housing, food, unemployment, and more. Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Will the IRS return my original documents to me? How long will it take to get them back? (updated December

If you need to renew your ITIN, you’ll follow the same process as applying for a new ITIN. However, if you mail in your renewal application, you can simply send along a form W-7 with supporting documents—no need to attach a tax return. If you already have an ITIN but fail to submit a U.S. tax return in any given calendar year, your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number may expire. If this happens, you’ll need to resubmit all your materials – along with your most recently completed U.S. federal tax return.

It’s for individuals who are required to have a taxpayer identification number for tax purposes, but who do not have, and are not eligible to obtain, a Social Security Number (SSN). And now that you know more about how ITINs work and who may need one, you might be curious to learn more about what taxes are, how to file taxes and what happens if you don’t pay your taxes. The IRS has an online tool to determine if someone is eligible to receive an ITIN.

Government information

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. When you open a checking account or a savings account, you’ll need to verify your identity.

At a minimum, you should complete Form W-7 when you are ready to file your federal income tax return by the return’s prescribed due date. If the tax return you attach to Form W-7 is filed after the return’s due date, you may owe interest and/or penalties. To prevent delays, make sure you’ve provided the correct information and sent all the required supporting documentation.