Tax guides
Form W-7: how to apply for an ITIN
Vordana Tax ·
Form W-7 is the application you file with the IRS to get an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). This guide explains who needs one, which identity documents you must send, where you can apply and what happens once you have your number.
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Who needs an ITIN?
You need an ITIN if you must file a federal tax return, or are listed on one as a spouse or dependent, and you do not have and cannot get a Social Security number. If you can get a Social Security number, you should apply for that instead of an ITIN.
An ITIN is for taxes only: it does not authorize work, does not qualify you for Social Security benefits and does not change your immigration status.
A W-7 usually goes with your return
In most cases, Form W-7 is filed together with the federal tax return you need the number for. The IRS reviews the application, assigns the ITIN and then processes the return.
There are some exceptions that let you apply without a return; the IRS's Instructions for Form W-7 explain them. If your ITIN has expired, you renew it with Form W-7 as well.
Identity documents the IRS asks for
- A current passport is enough on its own: it proves both your identity and your foreign status.
- Without a passport, you send a combination of other documents from the IRS's list, for example a photo ID from your country, a birth certificate or a driver's license. At least one must have your photo.
- Documents must be originals or copies authenticated by the agency that issued them. Plain photocopies are not accepted.
- For a dependent, the IRS may ask for more, such as school or medical records.
Where to file Form W-7
- By mail to the IRS, together with your return and your identity documents. The IRS returns your original documents.
- In person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center that offers this service, usually by appointment. Staff there can review your documents so you do not have to mail them.
- Through a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), a person or organization the IRS has authorized to help with the application and review certain identity documents.
Once you have your ITIN
Vordana Tax does not prepare Form W-7 and cannot e-file a return that goes with a W-7, because that return is mailed on paper together with the application.
Once you have your ITIN, you can prepare and e-file your returns with Vordana Tax. Use your ITIN on every return: an ITIN that is not used on a federal return for three years in a row expires.
Questions
Do I need a passport to get an ITIN?
No. A passport is the only document that is enough on its own, but without one you can send a combination of other documents from the IRS's list, and at least one must have your photo.
Can I e-file my return while I wait for my ITIN?
No. The return that goes with Form W-7 is mailed on paper with the application. Once you have your ITIN, you can e-file your returns.
Does my ITIN expire?
Yes, if you do not use it on a federal return for three years in a row. You renew it with Form W-7.
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