Moreover, the steps for obtaining an ITIN become slightly more complex when reporting U.S. taxes while living abroad. Conclusions are based on information provided by you in response to the questions you answered. Answers do not constitute written advice in response to federal extension a specific written request of the taxpayer within the meaning of section 6404(f) of the Internal Revenue Code. As long as you qualify for a refund, and you have filed your taxes correctly, then yes.
To prevent delays, make sure you’ve provided the correct information and sent all the required supporting documentation. Incomplete or incorrect applications may take longer to process. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, learn how to get and use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file a federal tax return. I mailed my ITIN application (W-7, tax return etc) to the IRS and was wondering what the processing time currently is for this. An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service. As the name implies, an ITIN is a dedicated tax ID number that allows individuals to report their earnings, expenses and deductions to the IRS.
Like Social Security numbers, the ITIN is also nine digits long. If you’re a qualifying non-resident or a resident alien (green card holder), you, your spouse, and your dependents can receive an ITIN. If you’re a US citizen who regularly files taxes, you likely have a Social Security number. But if you’re a non-citizen, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) still expects you to report taxes every year — for which you’ll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The IRS clarifies that you need either an ITIN or an SSN to get the Child Tax Credit.
Check your inbox
However, services may vary between countries, so we recommend that you contact the appropriate consulate or embassy for specific information. Taxpayers with an ITIN can complete the registration process to access their IRS online account, which provides balance due, payment history, payment plans, tax records, and more. At Expat CPA, we specialize in helping non-residents, US citizens and expats remain compliant with the latest IRS tax codes. In addition to dedicated support for W-7 form instruction, we can also help you determine your expat eligibility for Social Security and other federal benefits. Even though the basic process for obtaining an ITIN is fairly straightforward, IRS forms are notoriously confusing for citizens and foreign nationals alike.
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues ITINs, while the issuing agency for the SSN is the Social Security Administration, or SSA.
- The purpose of an ITIN is to ensure those who work in the U.S. have a method of paying taxes, even if they don’t qualify for a Social Security number (SSN) from the Social Security Administration.
- To prevent delays, make sure you’ve provided the correct information and sent all the required supporting documentation.
- ITIN holders must verify their identity through the video chat process and will need a valid email address, proof of ITIN, one primary document and one secondary document.
ITIN holders are no different from SSN holders when it 5 free consultant invoice templates comes to getting a tax refund. A Social Security number is only issued for citizens and qualifying resident aliens, such as green card holders. This number keeps track of the years you’ve worked in the U.S. and your lifetime earnings.
Individual taxpayer identification number
These unique numbers are reserved for U.S. taxpayers who are unable to obtain a traditional Social Security number. Note, however, that having an ITIN doesn’t necessarily qualify one to work or reside in the United States. These numbers only exist for federal recording a discount on accounts payable tax reporting purposes. ITIN holders must verify their identity through the video chat process and will need a valid email address, proof of ITIN, one primary document and one secondary document. Anyone who needs to file a U.S. tax return can get an ITIN, regardless of their U.S. immigration status.
What do I do if my name has changed since I received my ITIN?
If you’re unsure whether you need an ITIN, check with your employer.
However, if you mail in your renewal application, you can simply send along a form W-7 with supporting documents—no need to attach a tax return. 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. In lieu of sending original documentation, you may use an IRS authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) or make an appointment at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) location. To find a local CAA in your area, you can visit Acceptance Agent Program.
The standard processing time is still seven weeks, although the IRS points out that delays can last up to 11 weeks if the renewal paperwork is received during peak tax time (January 15 to April 30). A certified document is one that the original issuing agency provides and certifies as an exact copy of the original document and contains an official stamped seal from the Agency. A notarized document is one that the taxpayer provides to a public notary who bears witness to the signing of the official document and affixes a seal assuring that the document is legitimate. Dependents of U.S. military personnel can submit original documents, certified copies or notarized copies of identification documents. This interview will help you determine if you should file an application to receive an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). An ITIN is a tax processing number, issued by the Internal Revenue Service, for certain resident and nonresident aliens, their spouses, and their dependents.