ITIN

What is ITIN?

Why is it important?

How can I request it?

In the United States, as in any other country, there is rigorous control for compliance with state and federal tax obligations. For this reason, if a person doesn't have social security (SSN) because they are not a US resident, they must request their personal tax identification number, also known as ITIN.

This meaning that the ITIN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, is a tax processing number issued by the IRS.

Who can apply to get it?

People who do not have an SSN and are not eligible to obtain one.
Individuals who must provide a federal tax identification number or file a federal or state income tax return.
A nonresident who is required to file a US tax return.

The purpose of the ITIN is that people who don't have an SSN or don't meet the requirements to obtain it, can comply with the tax laws of the United States.

Additionally, it serves to provide a way to efficiently process and account for the tax returns and payments of these individuals.

The ITIN is also required when starting accounts in online platforms such like Stripe, the most famous online payments processing gateway, and in marketplaces, like Amazon, the ITIN will be also required for fiscal control.

Prodezk is your ally in the United States. Count on us to request your ITIN from the IRS, we will just require the following:

Valid passport (Not close to expiration).
Valid visa (Not close to expiration) or other valid document issued by the government of your country.
Updated residence address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for the ITIN if my passport or Visa expires during the next 6 months?

The process can take from 4 to 6 months. We recommend to present documents with date of expiration longer than 6 months.

If I have an SSN, do I need an ITIN?

No, the ITIN is specifically for people who do not have an SSN, and do not meet the requirements to obtain it.

Can I receive the Social Security benefits with an ITIN?

No, your ITIN has no other purpose than to file federal taxes. Meaning that the ITIN does not:

Authorizes to work in the USA.
Provides eligibility for Social Security benefits (SSN).
Qualifies a person for an earned income credit.

How long does the ITIN application take?

The process to obtain your ITIN can take from 4 to 6 months as it is done directly at the IRS.

Does the ITIN have an expiration date?

According to the IRS, if an ITIN is not used on a federal tax return, at least once in the last three years, it would expire on the last day of the year.