Pillar
ITIN Number Guide
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a 9-digit tax ID starting with 9, issued by the IRS to individuals who need a US tax ID but cannot get an SSN.
What Is ITIN
What Is an ITIN?
ITIN stands for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. It is a tax processing number issued by the IRS to individuals who:
- Are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN)
- Need to file US federal tax returns
- Need a US tax ID for financial accounts
| Feature | ITIN | SSN | EIN | |---------|------|-----|-----| | Format | 9XX-XX-XXXX | XXX-XX-XXXX | XX-XXXXXXX | | Issued to | Individuals without SSN | US citizens/residents | Businesses | | Work authorization | No | Yes | N/A | | Issued by | IRS | SSA | IRS | | Application form | W-7 | SS-5 | SS-4 |
For comparisons, see EIN vs ITIN and ITIN vs SSN.
How to Get
How to Get an ITIN
3 methods:
- Mail — Form W-7 + tax return + ID docs to IRS ITIN Operation, Austin TX 78714
- CAA — Through an IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent
- In-person — At an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center
Processing: 7-11 weeks. See how to get an ITIN and Form W-7 guide.
ITIN Services Through ein.so
| Plan | Price | |------|-------| | Standard ITIN | $197 | | Express ITIN | $297 |
Key Facts
Key ITIN Facts
- Expires after 3 years of non-use on a tax return
- Does NOT provide work authorization
- Does NOT affect immigration status
- Can be used to open some bank accounts
- Required for tax treaty benefits
- Cannot coexist with an SSN (ITIN rescinded if SSN obtained)
Related: What is ITIN | ITIN application | ITIN renewal | ITIN cost | ITIN processing time
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an ITIN?
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a 9-digit tax ID issued by the IRS to individuals who need a US tax number but cannot get an SSN. Format: 9XX-XX-XXXX.
Who needs an ITIN?
Non-resident aliens with US tax obligations, spouses/dependents of US citizens/residents, and anyone who needs to file a US tax return but does not qualify for an SSN.
How do I apply for an ITIN?
Submit Form W-7 with a federal tax return and identity documents to the IRS. Processing takes 7-11 weeks. ein.so offers ITIN services for $197.
Does an ITIN provide work authorization?
No. An ITIN is for tax purposes only. It does not authorize you to work in the United States or affect your immigration status.
What is the difference between ITIN and EIN?
An ITIN is for individuals. An EIN is for businesses. An ITIN starts with 9 (9XX-XX-XXXX). An EIN uses XX-XXXXXXX format. See EIN vs ITIN for details.
Need an EIN? We Handle Everything.
Non-US resident? We file Form SS-4 with the IRS and deliver your EIN by email. Just $49.
Get My EIN for $49