Roughly 4.4 million people file U.S. tax returns each year using an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. If you have heard the term but are not sure what it means, you are far from alone.
An ITIN, short for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS. It lets people who are not eligible for a Social Security number (SSN) report income, pay taxes, and in many cases open bank accounts or apply for credit cards. This guide walks through what it is, who needs one, and exactly how to apply.
What an ITIN actually is
An ITIN looks just like an SSN. It has nine digits in a 9XX-XX-XXXX format and always starts with the number 9. The IRS created it back in 1996 so people without work authorization could still meet their U.S. tax obligations.
An ITIN is only a tax processing number. It does not grant the right to work in the United States, does not qualify you for Social Security benefits, and does not change your immigration status. What it does do is give the IRS a way to track your tax filings.
Many banks, credit unions, and credit card issuers also accept an ITIN in place of an SSN when you open an account. That makes it a useful tool for newcomers who want to start building a financial life in the U.S. If a checking account is your first step, our checklist on what you need to open a checking account walks through which banks accept ITIN-based applications and the supporting documents you will need.
Who needs an ITIN
You likely need an ITIN if you have a U.S. tax filing requirement but cannot get an SSN. Common examples include:
- Nonresident aliens who must file a U.S. tax return
- Resident aliens filing based on days present in the country
- Dependents or spouses of a U.S. citizen or resident
- Dependents or spouses of a nonresident visa holder
- Foreign nationals receiving U.S.-source income such as scholarships, royalties, or investment gains
Undocumented immigrants who earn money in the U.S. also use ITINs to file taxes. The IRS is required by law to keep that tax information confidential and separate from immigration enforcement, although you should always speak with a qualified attorney about your own situation.
How an ITIN helps you build credit
Many major issuers, including American Express, Capital One, Citi, and several credit unions, accept an ITIN on credit card applications. That means once you have an ITIN, you can apply for a starter card, use it responsibly, and start a U.S. credit file. If you came in on a student or work visa, our guide on how to build credit on an OPT visa covers the same playbook tailored to non-citizens with temporary work authorization.
If you have no credit history yet, a secured card is usually the easiest entry point. You deposit a refundable amount, the issuer reports your payments to the three credit bureaus, and your score begins to build after a few months of on-time activity.
The fastest way to get an ITIN without the usual mail-it-in headaches is through a Certified Acceptance Agent. TheITIN.com is one option. They handle Form W-7, verify your original documents so you do not have to ship your passport to the IRS, and submit everything for you. Pricing and processing times are listed on their site.
TheITIN.com
TheITIN.com
No SSN? No problem. TheITIN.com makes getting your U.S. tax ID (ITIN) fast and painless — 100% online. Perfect for people who need to start building credit, file taxes, or open bank accounts in America.
Standout feature
100% online ITIN application. No hidden fees. Trusted by thousands with 4.8★ on Trustpilot.
Fees
Starting at $497
Pros
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Cons
Processing time depends on IRS (can take up to 14 weeks).
How to apply for an ITIN with Form W-7
The application is done with IRS Form W-7. You can file it three ways:
- By mail to the IRS ITIN Operation in Austin, Texas, along with your original passport or certified copies.
- In person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center that accepts ITIN applications by appointment.
- Through a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), who can verify your documents locally and submit the application on your behalf.
You will need to submit:
- Completed Form W-7
- Your federal tax return for the year (unless you qualify for an exception)
- Proof of identity and foreign status, usually a valid passport
Processing typically takes 7 to 11 weeks. During peak tax season, January through April, it can stretch longer. Once approved, the IRS mails you a notice (CP565) with your assigned ITIN.
Documents that prove identity and foreign status
A current passport is the only document that works on its own. If you do not have one, you must submit two documents from the IRS approved list, such as a national identification card, U.S. or foreign driver's license, civil birth certificate, or visa.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Sending photocopies instead of original or IRS-certified documents
- Forgetting to attach the tax return when one is required
- Using an old version of Form W-7
- Letting the ITIN expire without renewing it (ITINs not used on a return for three consecutive years are deactivated)
ITIN vs SSN vs EIN
All three are nine-digit tax IDs, but they do different jobs.
- SSN (Social Security Number) is issued by the Social Security Administration to U.S. citizens and authorized residents. It is used for work, benefits, and taxes.
- ITIN is issued by the IRS to people who are not eligible for an SSN but still have a U.S. tax filing requirement. It is for taxes only.
- EIN (Employer Identification Number) is issued by the IRS to businesses for tax and payroll purposes. Individuals do not file personal taxes with an EIN.
If you later become eligible for an SSN, you must stop using your ITIN and notify the IRS so they can combine your records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work in the U.S. with an ITIN?
No. An ITIN is purely a tax processing number. It does not grant work authorization or change your immigration status. To work legally, you need an Employment Authorization Document or another work-authorized status, and ultimately an SSN.
Can I get a credit card with an ITIN?
Yes. Several major issuers, including Capital One, Citi, American Express, and many credit unions, accept ITINs on applications. If you are new to U.S. credit, starting with a secured card or a credit builder product is usually the smoothest path. Our roundup of pre-approved credit cards for no credit covers the issuers most likely to extend an offer when your file is brand new.
How long does it take to get an ITIN?
The IRS estimates 7 to 11 weeks once your complete application is received. Filing during tax season can take longer. Using a Certifying Acceptance Agent often speeds up document review and reduces rejection risk.
Does an ITIN expire?
Yes. If you do not use your ITIN on a federal tax return for three consecutive years, it is deactivated. The IRS also rolls out periodic expirations based on the middle digits of the number. You can renew by filing Form W-7 again with proof of identity.
Terms and conditions apply to any financial products mentioned. Always check current details with the IRS or your chosen issuer before applying.
