Frequently asked questions

1. What is an ITIN?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is one type of Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

In the U.S., the IRS uses different types of TINs to track tax obligations:

• SSN (Social Security Number): Issued by the Social Security Administration, mainly for U.S. citizens and individuals authorized to work in the U.S.

• EIN (Employer Identification Number): Issued to businesses, trusts, and estates for tax reporting.

• ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number): Issued to individuals who need to comply with U.S. tax laws but are not eligible for an SSN.

Key facts about ITIN:

• It is a nine-digit number that always begins with “9” (format: 9XX-XX-XXXX).

• It is used only for tax processing and reporting to the IRS.

• It does not authorize work in the U.S. or provide Social Security benefits.

The ITIN ensures that foreign nationals, nonresident aliens, dependents, and others who cannot get an SSN can still file taxes, receive income, or be properly identified for U.S. tax purposes.

2. Who needs an ITIN?

You may need an ITIN in several situations:

A. For U.S. Tax Filing Purposes

• You are a nonresident alien required to file a U.S. tax return.

• You are a U.S. resident alien (based on days of presence) filing a U.S. tax return.

• You are a dependent or spouse of a U.S. citizen/resident alien etc.

B. For Non-Tax Purposes (other common uses)

Even if you don’t have a current filing requirement, an ITIN may be required for:

• Opening a U.S. bank account if you are not eligible for an SSN.

• Receiving U.S. investment income (e.g., interest, dividends, rental income) where tax withholding applies.

• Claiming tax treaty benefits to reduce U.S. withholding tax on income.

• Buying or selling U.S. real estate (ITIN is needed for FIRPTA withholding).

• Filing informational returns with the IRS (e.g., being listed as a partner/shareholder in a U.S. business).

• Mortgage reporting (some lenders require ITIN for home loans).

• State tax filings (many states require ITIN if you cannot get an SSN).

3. What documents are required for ITIN application?

When applying for an ITIN, you must provide proof of identity and foreign status. The IRS accepts only certain documents, and these must be either:

• Originals, or

• Certified copies verified by a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) or the original issuing authority.

The most commonly accepted documents include:

• Passport (standalone document, most preferred)
  OR, if no passport:

• National ID card (must show photo, name, current address, date of birth, and expiration date)

• U.S. driver’s license

• Foreign driver’s license

• U.S. state ID card

• Foreign voter’s registration card

• Birth certificate (required for dependents under 18, unless passport is provided)

• School or medical records (for dependents, if applicable)

Note: If you apply through a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA), they can verify your documents and you don’t have to mail the originals to the IRS.

For the complete list of acceptable documents, please visit the IRS page here:
https://www.irs.gov/tin/itin/itin-acceptance-agents

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