Straightforward answers to the questions we hear most often from ITIN applicants.
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS for federal tax purposes to individuals who need a U.S. taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for a Social Security Number.
Individuals with a qualifying federal tax purpose who are not eligible for an SSN may need an ITIN. This can include certain nonresident aliens, resident aliens, and spouses or dependents. Eligibility depends on individual circumstances.
Yes. Many ITIN applicants are located outside the United States. Eligibility depends on the applicant's federal tax purpose, not on residency alone.
Yes, individuals in Pakistan can generally apply for an ITIN if they have a qualifying federal tax purpose. As a Certified Acceptance Agent, Sangemeel.LLC can assist with document review and submission for applicants outside the United States.
No. An ITIN is specifically for individuals who are not eligible for an SSN. If you are eligible for an SSN, you generally cannot obtain an ITIN.
A valid, unexpired passport is generally the only stand-alone document that can establish both identity and foreign status for most applicants. If a passport is not used, an appropriate combination of other acceptable documents is generally required.
Working with a Certified Acceptance Agent, such as Sangemeel.LLC, allows eligible documents to be authenticated locally in many cases, reducing the need to mail original documents to the IRS.
A Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) is authorized by the IRS to assist ITIN applicants, including reviewing Form W-7 and authenticating certain eligible supporting documents under IRS rules.
No. A CAA helps applicants prepare and submit a complete, accurate application, but the IRS alone reviews every application and makes the final determination.
Processing times are set and published by the IRS and can change. Check the official IRS ITIN page for current processing times.
No. An ITIN does not authorize employment in the United States and is not a substitute for a Social Security Number for employment purposes.
No. An ITIN is issued strictly for federal tax purposes and has no effect on immigration status.
No. Whether an individual needs an ITIN depends on their own federal tax circumstances and purpose, not simply on forming or owning a U.S. LLC. See our LLC vs EIN vs ITIN comparison for more detail.
ITINs can expire if not used on a federal tax return for a period of consecutive years, or under other IRS rules that change from time to time. Check current IRS guidance for expiration rules.
An expired ITIN is generally renewed by submitting a new Form W-7 with current supporting documentation, following the same general process as an initial application.
The IRS will send a notice describing what is needed. Applicants should respond by the deadline in the notice. A CAA can assist in reviewing and responding to such notices where applicable.
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