ITIN / W-7 Help
Step-by-step help applying for or renewing an ITIN with Form W-7, for non-residents, spouses, and dependents.
- Free, no-obligation consultation
- Confidential & secure
- Experienced tax professionals
What's included & how it works
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number the IRS issues to people who need to file or be claimed on a U.S. tax return but aren't eligible for a Social Security number. It always begins with the number 9. An ITIN is strictly for federal tax purposes — it does not authorize work, provide immigration status, or qualify you for Social Security benefits.
You apply using Form W-7, and in most cases it must be submitted together with the tax return that creates the filing requirement, along with documents proving both your identity and your foreign status. A valid passport is the only document that can stand alone; otherwise a combination of documents is required. Getting the documentation right is the single biggest reason applications are accepted or rejected.
ITINs also expire. An ITIN that hasn't been used on a federal return for three consecutive years will expire, and certain older ITINs are retired on a schedule, so renewal is often needed before you can file. We help non-resident filers, spouses, and dependents apply for a new ITIN or renew an existing one — preparing Form W-7, identifying the correct supporting documents, and helping you submit so you don't have to mail your original passport when there's a safer route, such as a Certifying Acceptance Agent or an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
- 1
Confirm you need an ITIN
We check whether you're eligible for an SSN instead, and confirm the tax-filing reason that qualifies you for an ITIN.
- 2
Prepare Form W-7
We complete your W-7 accurately, selecting the correct reason code and pairing it with the tax return it supports.
- 3
Get your documents right
We identify which identity and foreign-status documents you need so your application isn't delayed or rejected.
- 4
Submit and track
We help you submit through the safest route and guide you on renewals so your ITIN stays valid for future filings.
Who this is for
- Non-residents who must file a U.S. tax return
- Spouses being claimed on a joint return
- Dependents who need an ITIN to be claimed
- People whose ITIN expired or went unused for 3 years
- Foreign nationals with U.S.-source income
- Anyone not eligible for a Social Security number
Frequently asked questions
Who needs an ITIN?+
Anyone who has a U.S. federal tax filing or reporting requirement but isn't eligible for a Social Security number. That commonly includes non-resident filers with U.S.-source income, and the spouses or dependents of taxpayers who need to be listed on a return. If you qualify for an SSN, you should get that instead.
Do I have to mail my original passport?+
Not necessarily. While you can mail original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency, you can often avoid that by applying through an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent or by visiting an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center that verifies documents in person. We help you choose the safest route for your situation.
How long does it take to get an ITIN?+
Processing typically takes about seven weeks once the IRS receives a complete application, and it can take longer during the busy filing season or from abroad. Because the W-7 is usually filed with your tax return, applying early helps avoid delays to your return and any refund.
Does my ITIN ever expire?+
Yes. An ITIN expires if it isn't used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years, and certain older ITINs were retired on a published schedule. If your ITIN has expired, it must be renewed before the IRS will process a return that relies on it. We help with both new applications and renewals.
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