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Apply for an ITIN in-person using the services of an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent. This will prevent you from having to mail your proof of identity and foreign status documents. Many applicants have reported that IRS lost their passports or other valuable and hard-to-replace identification documents. Consider getting certified copies or using one of the application methods listed below, rather than mailing original identification documents to the IRS. 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.
Yet, there are other tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit, for which they might qualify, provided they satisfy all the required conditions. Eligibility for an ITIN hinges on whether you’re a foreign national or a person obligated to file or report under U.S. law, regardless of your resident status. If you must send original documents, you can send the IRS a prepaid express envelope with your application to have them returned faster. The IRS has a long list of documents or combinations of documents that can show your status and identity.
For a summary of those rules, please see the new Form W-7 and its instructions. Always get professional advice from a US international tax specialist. Proposed regulations permitting the IRS to shorten third-party notice requirements in certain circum… Acceptance Agents (AAs) and Certifying Acceptance Agents (CAAs) can help you complete applications.
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IRS Certified Acceptance Agents, or CAAs, are entities (individuals, businesses, or organizations) authorized by the IRS to assist individuals in obtaining ITINs. They can review your identification documents and forward them to the IRS, providing a certificate of accuracy so you don’t have to send original documentation to the IRS. Using a CAA can make the application process quicker and more secure. If none of the in-person options work for you, you can still submit your application by mail. We strongly suggest that you get certified copies of all your documents instead of sending originals. We also suggest you send the application and documents by certified mail so you’ll have evidence of when you filed the application and where you sent it.
Get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file your tax return
The advantage to using CAAs is that for primary and secondary applicants (like a spouse), the CAA can certify that your documents are original and make copies to send to the IRS. That way, you won’t have to mail your originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. A certified copy is one that the original issuing agency provides, and certifies as an exact copy of the original, and contains an official stamped seal from the agency. Certifying Acceptance Agents and many Taxpayer Assistance Centers, discussed below, may also certify certain documents. You will only file a tax return to the address above once, when you file Form W-7 to get an ITIN. In subsequent years, when you have an ITIN, you will file your tax return as directed in the form instructions.
- We also suggest you send the application and documents by certified mail so you’ll have evidence of when you filed the application and where you sent it.
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who are required for U.S. federal tax purposes to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but who do not have and are not eligible to get a Social Security number (SSN).
- Apply for an ITIN in-person using the services of an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent.
- This unique number is assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who are obliged to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but cannot get a Social Security Number (SSN).
- It’s for American citizens that didn’t know they had to file US tax returns each year, and have therefore fallen behind.
The Facts About the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
If you’re living and working abroad, our friendly, supportive Expat Tax Online Help Facebook group is here to assist. We’ve designed a community that serves as a comprehensive guide and resource platform tailored for US expats. Hence, if you’re eligible for an SSN, it’s suggested that you apply for that rather than an ITIN.
If a person obtains an working capital turnover ratio ITIN but does not include it on a federal tax return for three consecutive years, it will expire and will need to be revalidated. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who are required for U.S. federal tax purposes to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but who do not have and are not eligible to get a Social Security number (SSN). You can apply for an ITIN by bringing your completed forms (Including the completed Form W-7) and documentation to any IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center office.
While we aim to provide helpful and accurate information, we make no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the information contained here or linked to from this material. Furthermore, local communities may also have resources such as workshops or assistance programs provided by community organizations, tax preparers, or legal aid organizations. These can offer tailored, in-person assistance, making the process less intimidating. Also, remember that the use of ITINs does come with certain restrictions. For instance, ITIN holders do not qualify for certain tax advantages, like the Earned Income Tax Credit.