Get an ITIN without mailing your passport to the IRS

38 minutes ago

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An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a tax number the IRS gives to people who need to file a U.S. tax return but cannot get a Social Security number. Many people put it off for one reason: they do not want to mail their passport to the IRS and wait for it to come back.

You do not have to mail your passport

The IRS instructions for Form W-7 give two other ways to apply. You can apply "by visiting designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers," or "through one of the two types of acceptance agents authorized by the IRS."

A Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) looks at your original documents in an interview and sends the IRS a certificate with copies. You keep your originals.

If you mail your originals instead, plan to be without them for a while. The IRS says: "If your original documents aren't returned within 60 days, you can call the IRS."

What a CAA can verify

You and your spouse. The IRS says "CAAs can authenticate all identification documents for primary and secondary taxpayers," except foreign military ID cards.
Your children and other dependents. "For dependents, CAAs can only verify passports and birth certificates."
Passport is the easiest. A current passport is the only document the IRS accepts on its own. Without one, you need at least two other documents.

How the application works

We fill out Form W-7 for each person who needs an ITIN.
Form W-7 goes to the IRS together with your federal tax return, on paper.
The IRS says to "allow 7 weeks for the IRS to notify you of your ITIN application status," and 9 to 11 weeks in the busy season or if you apply from abroad.

Already have an ITIN? Check that it still works

An ITIN expires if it "wasn't included on at least one U.S. federal tax return for the last 3 consecutive tax years." You only need to renew it if it will be used on a return.

Good to know

The IRS says ITINs are "for federal income tax purposes only." An ITIN does not change your immigration status and does not give permission to work.

How we help

Solving Life is an IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent. We check your documents, prepare Form W-7 and your tax return together, and you keep your passport. Text (720) 432-0981 or send an inquiry at solvinglifellc.com.