Understanding the ITIN Application Process: A Complete Guide
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is designed to ensure that individuals who do not have, and are not eligible to obtain, a Social Security Number (SSN), can comply with U.S. tax laws.
At CEV Taxes, we process hundreds of ITIN applications every year. Here is what you need to know.
Who Needs an ITIN?
You must apply for an ITIN if you:
- Do not have an SSN and are not eligible to obtain one.
- Have a requirement to furnish a federal tax identification number or file a federal tax return.
- Are a nonresident alien required to file a U.S. tax return.
- Are a U.S. resident alien (based on days present in the United States) filing a U.S. tax return.
Required Documentation
To apply, you must submit Form W-7 alongside your federal income tax return. You must also include original documentation or certified copies from the issuing agency to prove your identity and foreign status. A passport is the only document that stands alone for both identity and foreign status.
How CEV Taxes Can Help
Navigating the ITIN process can be intimidating, especially since you must mail highly sensitive original documents (like passports) to the IRS if you apply alone.
As an IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), CEV Taxes can verify your original documents in our office. This means you get your passport back immediately, and we handle the secure transmission of your application to the IRS.