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Definition

What Is an ITIN? Complete Explanati Guide

An ITIN is an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number — a 9-digit tax processing number issued by the IRS to people who need a US tax ID but cannot get an SSN.

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a tax processing number issued by the IRS to individuals who are required to have a US taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for a Social Security Number. ITINs begin with the digit 9 and follow the format 9XX-XX-XXXX. They are used exclusively for federal tax reporting — NOT for work authorization, Social Security benefits, or immigration status.

Purpose

What an ITIN Is and Isn't

An ITIN IS:

  • A 9-digit tax processing number (9XX-XX-XXXX)
  • Issued by the IRS under IRC Section 6109
  • Valid for filing US federal tax returns
  • Usable for opening some bank accounts
  • Required to claim tax treaty benefits

An ITIN is NOT:

  • A work permit or work authorization
  • A Social Security Number replacement
  • Immigration documentation
  • Valid for Social Security benefits
  • Proof of legal presence in the US

For comparison with other tax IDs, see EIN vs ITIN and ITIN vs SSN.

Who Needs

Who Needs an ITIN?

  1. Non-resident aliens filing US tax returns (Form 1040-NR)
  2. Resident aliens filing US tax returns without SSN eligibility
  3. Dependents/spouses of US citizens or resident aliens
  4. Dependents/spouses of non-resident aliens with US tax obligations
  5. Non-resident aliens claiming tax treaty benefits
  6. Foreign students with US scholarship income

See ITIN for non-residents and how to get an ITIN.

Apply

How to Get an ITIN

Apply using Form W-7 submitted with a federal tax return. Processing: 7-11 weeks.

ein.so ITIN service: $197 Standard / $297 Express.

Related: ITIN application | ITIN cost | ITIN number

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does ITIN stand for?

ITIN stands for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. It is a 9-digit tax processing number issued by the IRS.

Is an ITIN the same as an SSN?

No. An SSN provides work authorization and Social Security benefits. An ITIN is for tax purposes only with no work authorization.

Can I work with an ITIN?

No. An ITIN does not authorize employment in the United States. Only an SSN or Employment Authorization Document permits work.

How long is an ITIN valid?

An ITIN expires if not used on a federal tax return for 3 consecutive years. ITINs with middle digits 70-88 have also expired.

Can I get an EIN with an ITIN?

Yes. Having an ITIN allows you to use the IRS online EIN application. You can also apply without an ITIN using Form SS-4 by fax.

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