Get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number ITIN to file your tax return

how long does it take to get an itin number

In subsequent years, when you have an ITIN, you will file your tax return as directed in the form instructions. The best option is to file your tax return as early in the tax filing season as possible. Processing your ITIN application takes several weeks, so expect longer than normal delays for your tax return to be processed. An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a federal tax identification number, and is used to identify a business entity. It is also used by estates and trusts which have income which is required to be reported on Form 1041, U.S.

Q14: Will the IRS accept an older version of the W-7 that has Renew an Existing ITIN written on it?

how long does it take to get an itin number

Even though the basic process for obtaining an ITIN is fairly straightforward, IRS forms are notoriously confusing for citizens and foreign nationals alike. Moreover, the steps for obtaining an ITIN become slightly more complex when reporting U.S. taxes while living abroad. You will receive a letter from the IRS assigning your tax identification number usually within seven weeks if you qualify for an ITIN and your application is complete. The letter will list your ITIN number and give you instructions on how to use it. You don’t need to have your ITIN to submit a tax extension.

Anyone who earns income from the U.S. is required to get a tax ID number, since they’re obligated to pay taxes on what they earn. 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 miss the 45-day window, your application will be automatically rejected. You can use the phone number listed on the notice to call with any questions. Under box 6e, indicate whether you’ve been issued an ITIN before, and list the number in box 6f.

For a summary of those rules, please see the new Form W-7 and its instructions. Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or chapter 19 audit of acquisition and payment cycle let you know where to find it. USA.gov is the new centralized place for finding government benefits for health care, housing, food, unemployment, and more. Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. To learn about our professional expat tax preparation services, schedule a free consultation with us today.

  1. 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.
  2. Even if you have a PTIN but you received it prior to September 28, 2010, you must apply for a new or renewed PTIN by using the new system.
  3. If you will need your original documents for any purpose within this processing timeframe, you may wish to apply in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center or CAA.
  4. These numbers only exist for federal tax reporting purposes.
  5. If you decide to work with a CAA, they can verify your original documents and send certified copies to the IRS for you.
  6. They are issued regardless of immigration status, because both resident and nonresident aliens may have a U.S. filing or reporting requirement under the Internal Revenue Code.

New York state residents: Excluded workers fund payments

With just a few clicks, you can electronically file your taxes with the IRS to ensure the fastest possible processing times. The IRS releases the tax season’s start date every year. They won’t officially begin accepting tax returns before then, so keep an eye out for this announcement. If this has happened to you, locate the IRSN number on the letter you received from the IRS and list it under box 6f.

Where to apply?

Remitly is on a mission to make international money transfers faster, easier, more transparent, and more affordable. Since 2011, millions of people have used Remitly to send money with peace of mind. Once you receive your ITIN, the IRS requires you to revalidate it every five years. If you don’t use your ITIN for three consecutive years, it will expire. ITIN holders do not qualify for such Social Security benefits.

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. 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. These documents will not be accepted for ITIN applications. Dependents of U.S. military personnel can submit original documents, certified copies or notarized copies of identification documents.

What is an Individual Tax ID Number?

Once the doors open, it’s best to get your return in as soon as you can. This will put you towards the “front of the line” — giving you the best possible chance of a shorter turnaround. The good news is, they’re reaching out to you before rejecting your request for an ITIN. You’ll have 45 days to respond with new records, following the instructions in your letter.