Get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number ITIN to file your tax return

Keeper is the top-rated all-in-one business expense tracker, tax filing service, and personal accountant. I’m not going to spend much time getting into these, since they don’t apply to most people. But if you want to learn more, read page 10 of IRS Publication 1915. Anyone who needs to pay taxes but doesn’t fit into the Social Security box should get an ITIN. As an independent organization within the IRS, the Taxpayer Advocate Service helps taxpayers resolve problems and recommends changes that will prevent problems.

Q4: I only use my ITIN on information returns, like Forms 1099. If my ITIN is expiring, do I need to renew it?

1. This is especially true if you’re mailing your ITIN application to the U.S. from overseas as an expat or non-resident.
2. If you would like a tax expert to clarify it for you, feel free to sign up for Keeper.
3. A certified copy is one that the original issuing agency provides, and certifies as an exact copy of the original, and contains an official stamped seal from the agency.
4. You will only file a tax return to the address above once, when you file Form W-7 to get an ITIN.
5. They are shared across multiple governmental departments (including Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

You’ll have 45 days to respond with new records, following the instructions in your letter. Under box 6e, indicate whether you’ve been issued an ITIN before, and list the number in box 6f. 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.

However, services may vary between countries, so we recommend that you contact the appropriate consulate or embassy for specific information. The Taxpayer Advocate Service is an independent organization within the IRS that helps taxpayers and protects taxpayers’ rights. If you qualify for our assistance, which is always free, we will do everything possible to help you. If you must send original documents, you can send the IRS a prepaid express envelope with your application to have them returned faster.

In her spare time, she is a devoted cat mom and enjoys hiking, painting, and overwatering her houseplants. The advantage to using CAAs is that for primary and secondary applicants (like a spouse), the CAA can certify that your documents are original and make copies to send to the IRS. That way, you won’t have to mail your originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. While Keeper doesn’t currently support W-7 filings, our tax filing service is quick and easy.

What Is an Individual Tax ID Number (ITIN) and How To Get One

If you would like a tax expert to clarify it for you, feel free to sign up for Keeper. The IRS releases the tax season’s start date every year. They won’t officially begin accepting tax returns before then, so keep an eye out for this announcement.

ITIN holders must verify their identity through the video chat process and will need a valid email address, proof of ITIN, one primary document and one secondary document. When you open a checking account or a savings account, you’ll need to verify your identity. You can do this with an SSN or an ITIN, but some banks will also accept other forms of ID. These might include a passport number or other government-issued ID number. If neither option supplies an answer, you might have to resubmit your application and tax return.

What to expect after your ITIN application is processed

Consider getting certified copies or using one of the application methods listed below, rather than mailing original identification documents to the IRS. If you need to renew your ITIN, what does it mean to normalize financial statements 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. You will usually file an ITIN application, Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, with your first tax return, which you must file as a paper return, not electronically. All the exceptions are listed in the ITIN application instructions. Beginning January 1, 2011, if you are a paid tax preparer you must use a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) on returns you prepare.

How do I apply for an ITIN?

The Form W-7 requires documentation substantiating foreign/alien status and true identity for each individual. Form W-7(SP), Solicitud de Número de Identificación Personal del Contribuyente del Servicio de Impuestos Internos is available for use by Spanish speakers. Anyone who needs to file a U.S. tax return can get an ITIN, regardless of their U.S. immigration status.