How To Get An ITIN Number For Non-Residents & Expats

To find a local CAA in your area, you can visit Acceptance Agent Program. CAAs can authenticate all the identification documents for the primary and secondary applicant. For ceo and cfo meaning dependents, they can authenticate the passport and civil birth certificate; however, they must send the original or certified copies of all other documents directly to the IRS.

The IRS will then return the documents in the envelope provided by the applicant. You can file Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), with your federal income tax return. You must also include original documentation or certified copies from the issuing agency to prove identity and foreign status. If you qualify for an exception, then file Form W-7 with your proof of identity and foreign status documents and supporting documentation for the exception. IRS issues ITINs to help individuals comply with the U.S. tax laws, and to provide a means to efficiently process and account for tax returns and payments for those not eligible for Social Security numbers. They are issued regardless of immigration status, because both resident and nonresident aliens may have a U.S. filing or reporting requirement under the Internal Revenue Code.

Q15: Can I submit copies of my identification documents with my Form W-7?

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. As the name implies, an ITIN is a dedicated tax ID number that allows individuals to report their earnings, expenses and deductions to the IRS. These unique numbers are reserved for U.S. taxpayers who are unable to obtain a traditional Social Security number.

ITIN documentation frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. The IRS is currently processing Form W-7s within 11 weeks after receipt.
2. We are taking every action to minimize delays, and we are processing requests in the order they were received.
3. Note, however, that having an ITIN doesn’t necessarily qualify one to work or reside in the United States.
4. This is especially true if you’re mailing your ITIN application to the U.S. from overseas as an expat or non-resident.
5. For dependents, they can authenticate the passport and civil birth certificate; however, they must send the original or certified copies of all other documents directly to the IRS.

Bring it to your local IRS office, or use an acceptance agent (colleges, financial institutions, or accounting firms that are elasticity of demand and its types authorized by the IRS to assist applicants in obtaining ITINs). They’ll review the W-7 and documentation before sending it to the IRS. The IRS has updated procedures that affect the individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) application process.

In addition to dedicated support for W-7 form instruction, we can also help you determine your expat eligibility for Social Security and other federal benefits. You may be able to request a certified copy of documents at an embassy or consulate. However, services may vary between countries, so we recommend that you contact the appropriate consulate or embassy for specific information. Even though the basic process for obtaining an ITIN is fairly straightforward, IRS forms are notoriously confusing for citizens and foreign nationals alike.

You may also choose to submit certified copies from the issuing agency instead. Original documents you submit will be returned to you at the mailing address shown on your Form W-7. Applicants are permitted to include a prepaid Express Mail or courier envelope for faster return delivery of their documents.

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

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To apply for an ITIN, complete IRS Form W-7, IRS Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Form W-7 requires documentation substantiating foreign/alien status and true identity for each individual. You will receive a letter from the IRS assigning your tax identification number usually within seven weeks if you qualify for an ITIN and your application is complete. Taxpayers with an ITIN can complete the registration process to access their IRS online account, which provides balance due, payment history, payment plans, tax records, and more. At Expat CPA, we specialize in helping non-residents, US citizens and expats remain compliant with the latest IRS tax codes.

A notarized document is one that the taxpayer provides to a public notary who bears witness to the signing of the official document what is deferred revenue and affixes a seal assuring that the document is legitimate. Dependents of U.S. military personnel can submit original documents, certified copies or notarized copies of identification documents. In lieu of sending original documentation, you may use an IRS authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) or make an appointment at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) location.