What is an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN)?

An individual taxpayer identification number (or “ITIN”), is a 9-digit number issued by the IRS so that individuals can process their taxes.

ITINs are normally issued to people who do not have or are not eligible to get a social security number from the Social Security Administration.

To apply for your ITIN, you must submit IRS Form W-7 together with your proof of foreign status in the U.S., proof of identity, and federal income tax return to the U.S.

On the W-7 form, applicants need to identify themselves as one of these:

• Non-US citizen alien filing a U.S. federal tax return
• Non-US citizen alien needed to get an ITIN to guarantee a tax claim treaty benefit.
• U.S. resident alien (grounded on days present in the United States) filing a U.S. federal tax return
• Non-US citizen alien teacher, student, or professional claiming exception or filing a U.S. federal tax return
• Spouse/dependent of a non-US citizen holding a U.S. visa
• The Spouse of U.S. resident/resident alien
• Dependent of U.S. resident/resident alien

For more information on obtaining an ITIN, please review the IRS website by going here.

Although it’s possible that you can apply for an ITIN yourself, it’s a good idea to seek support from an IRS Acceptance Agent that has practical experience in helping foreigners.

Equifund is not an IRS Acceptance Agent, and cannot assist you with finding one. However, you should be able to find someone who can with a simple web search.