Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

  • Home
  • Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

ITIN Services at Vendor Registration Expert

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to ensure that people—including non-resident aliens and their dependents—are able to comply with U.S. tax laws and provide a means to efficiently process and account for tax returns and payments for those not eligible for Social Security Numbers (SSNs).

What is an ITIN?

The ITIN is used by the IRS to identify tax-related transactions of individuals without Social Security Numbers. It is a nine-digit number, similar to a Social Security Number, beginning with the number "9" and formatted like an SSN (i.e., 9XX-XX-XXXX).

Who Needs an ITIN?

Non-U.S. Residents

ndividuals who are required to file or report taxes but are not eligible for an SSN, such as foreign nationals and non-resident aliens who conduct business in the U.S.

U.S. Resident Aliens

Individuals who pass the substantial presence test and need to file a federal tax return.


Dependents and Spouses

Dependents or spouses of non-resident visa holders who need to file a U.S. tax return but are not eligible for an SSN.

Foreign Students and Scholars

Individuals in the U.S. under visas for educational and cultural exchange who need to comply with tax filing requirements.

Documents Needed for ITIN Application
To apply for an ITIN, applicants must provide documentation that proves their identity and foreign status. The primary documents accepted include:

Passport: A valid, unexpired passport is a standalone document for ITIN application.
U.S. Federal Tax Return: Required to demonstrate the need for an ITIN.
Other documents (if passport is unavailable): These can include a national identification card, birth certificate, U.S. or foreign driver's license, and school records (for dependents).  

The ITIN Application Process

1. Complete Form W-7: The IRS requires the completion of Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
2. Attach a Federal Tax Return: Unless you meet an exception, you must include a federal tax return with your application.
3. Submit Identification Documents: You can submit documents either through the mail, in person at an IRS walk-in office, or through an authorized Acceptance Agent like us.
Processing: Once received, the IRS will process the application and issue an ITIN typically within seven weeks.

Benefits of Obtaining an ITIN
Tax Filing: Allows individuals to comply with U.S. tax laws and file federal tax returns. Tax Refunds: Eligible for tax refunds, depending on their income and U.S. tax laws. Financial Services: Enables individuals to open U.S. bank accounts and apply for loans. Employment Record: Although it does not authorize work in the U.S., it provides a means to be paid legally and have taxes withheld in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Question

No, an ITIN does not provide legal authorization to work in the United States. It is only meant for tax identification purposes.

ITINs expire if not used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years. Also, the IRS has started a program where ITINs are expired in waves depending on the digits in the middle of the ITIN.

No, an ITIN cannot be used in place of an SSN for purposes outside of tax reporting, such as for Social Security benefits or claiming Earned Income Tax Credits.

+1 619 918 5013

Monday – Friday
9:00 am -5:00 pm