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What Is an ITIN and Do You Need One?
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If you're new to the US and don't have a Social Security number, you've probably run into a wall trying to file taxes, open a bank account, or get a form filled out.
An ITIN is usually the answer; and it's simpler and cheaper than most people expect.
What is an ITIN?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file US taxes but aren't eligible for a Social Security number.
It looks like an SSN and works like one for tax purposes, but:
It doesn't authorize you to work
It isn't a form of immigration status
Applying for one costs nothing.
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Who needs an ITIN
You generally need an ITIN if any of the following applies to you:
You're required to file a US federal tax return but don't qualify for an SSN.
You want to claim a refund for taxes withheld from your pay.
You're the spouse or dependent of a US citizen or resident, and being listed on their return qualifies them for a tax benefit.
You're a nonresident who earns US-source income, or who's claiming a tax treaty benefit.
One word of caution: if you're eligible for a Social Security number, you can't get an ITIN instead.
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The most common mix-up: an ITIN and an SSN look similar and both let you file taxes, but they aren't interchangeable.
An ITIN exists for one purpose: tax administration. Nothing else follows from having one.
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Is getting an ITIN free?
Yes. The IRS doesn't charge anything to apply for or renew an ITIN. You're only filling out Form W-7.
If you pay a tax preparer or a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) to help you apply, that fee is for their service, not for the number itself.
If anyone tells you the ITIN itself costs money, that's not accurate.
Next steps
Once you know you need an ITIN, the next step is actually applying for one. We will walk through that process step by step in our companion guide, How to Get an ITIN Number.
Once you have your ITIN in hand, many banks and credit unions will let you open an account with it in place of an SSN.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an ITIN if I already have a Social Security number?
No. An ITIN is only for people who aren't eligible for an SSN. If you have or can get an SSN, use that instead.
Can I get an ITIN and a work permit at the same time?
No. They're unrelated. An ITIN is a tax number; a work permit is a separate authorization from US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Having an ITIN doesn't help or hurt a work-permit application.
How long does an ITIN last?
An ITIN doesn't expire just from age, but it does expire if it isn't used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years. If that happens, you'll need to renew it before using it again.
Can my child or spouse get an ITIN too?
Often, yes. Spouses and dependents can get an ITIN if being listed on your return qualifies you for a specific tax benefit. The rules here have real exceptions, so it's worth confirming your situation with a tax professional.
Where do I apply for an ITIN?
You'll fill out Form W-7 and typically attach it to your first federal tax return. We cover exactly how, and what documents you'll need, in How to Get an ITIN Number.
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About the author
Gabriela Solis
Gabriela Solis is Ria's Senior Content Writer. Located in Querétaro, México, she focuses on telling stories that show the myriad human faces of remittances.
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