The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number [ITIN] is a U.S. taxpayer identification number, issued by the Internal Revenue Service [IRS]. It is for individuals who are required to have a taxpayer identification number for tax purposes, but who do not have and are not eligible to obtain a Social Security Number [SSN] from the Social Security Administration.
If you are required to have a federal tax identification number (or file a federal income tax return), and you are not eligible to get a SSN, you must apply for an ITIN.
Due to changes in IRS processing of ITIN applications, you must plan to apply for your ITIN by mail, or in person with a Certified Acceptance Agent, or Acceptance Agent. Please follow the updated instructions below.
Prepare Your ITIN Documents
The IRS provides detailed application instructions, review and prepare the information on the IRS website, before you submit your application.
Submit Your ITIN Application to the IRS
You can apply for your ITIN in one of two ways, by mail, or in-person. Determine which option will work best for you and review the submission instructions here.
ITIN Processing with the IRS
You will receive a letter from the IRS assigning your ITIN within 4-6 weeks. If you have not received your ITIN or other correspondence six weeks after applying, call the IRS toll-free number at 1-800-829-1040 to request the status of your application if you are in the United States.