IRS issues ITINs to individuals not eligible for Social Security Numbers(SSNs) in order to comply with the U.S. tax laws, and to provide a means to efficiently process and account for tax returns and payments.
Who needs and ITIN?
IRS issues ITINs to foreign nationals and others who have federal tax reporting or filing requirements and do not qualify for SSNs. A non-resident alien individual not eligible for a SSN who is required to file a U.S. tax return only to claim a refund of tax under the provisions of a U.S. tax treaty needs an ITIN.
Other examples of individuals who need ITINs include:
- A nonresident alien required to file a U.S. tax return.
- A U.S. resident alien (based on days present in the United States) filing a U.S. tax return
- A dependent or spouse of a U.S. citizen/resident alien
- A dependent or spouse of a nonresident alien visa holder
We can help you on acquiring your ITIN. Call Tax Controller for more information or to make an appointment today!
— Nirvando, Vice President of Tax Controller
When should I apply for an ITIN?
If you meet one of the exceptions to the tax filing requirement, submit Form W-7, along with the documents that prove your identity and foreign status and the required supplemental documents to substantiate your qualification for the exception, as soon as possible after you determine that you are covered by that exception.
You can apply for an ITIN any time during the year; however, if the tax return you attach to Form W-7 is filed after the return’s due date, you may owe interest and/or penalties. You should file your current year return by the prescribed due date to avoid this.