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Aug 21, 2026
What is an ITIN? The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, also known as an ITIN, is a tax number issued by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN), but who still must comply with US tax obligations. The ITIN plays an important role in helping foreign nationals living and working in the US legitimize their tax obligations. This article will explain what an ITIN is, the registration process, the necessary documents, and why it’s important for people newly arrived in the US.
An ITIN is a 9-digit tax number, starting with the number 9, issued to people not eligible to receive a Social Security Number (SSN). What is an ITIN number? It’s a tool that helps foreign nationals and individuals not residing in the US file taxes and comply with US law. Notably, an ITIN is not an immigration-enforcement tool, and an applicant’s information isn’t shared with other agencies, protecting their privacy.
Although an ITIN doesn’t grant Social Security benefits or Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC), it still brings some important benefits to its holder. For example, an ITIN helps foreign nationals apply for the Child Tax Credit. The credit can be up to $3,600 per child under 6 years old and $3,000 for children aged 7 to 18, depending on family income.
An ITIN also helps its holder open a bank account, obtain a driver’s license in some states, and use it as proof of residence. However, note that an ITIN does not grant the holder the right to work in the US and can’t be used for job-application purposes or to file Form I-9.
What is an ITIN and who needs it? An ITIN is needed by every foreign national living and working in the US without an SSN. This includes non-residents, foreign nationals, and people with income earned in the US who aren’t eligible for an SSN.
If you already have an ITIN, family members like your spouse and dependent children may also be eligible for an ITIN. Owning an ITIN helps ensure everyone fully complies with tax regulations regardless of residency status.
A Social Security Number (SSN) is issued to US citizens and certain other residents for tax purposes and to determine benefits eligibility. An SSN doesn’t just track income — it’s also widely used in other administrative procedures such as opening a bank account, applying for a passport, and applying for benefits.
Conversely, what is an ITIN? An ITIN is only valid for filing taxes and has no value for benefits-related procedures or identity verification. It’s only used for filing federal taxes, helping the IRS track and manage the tax obligations of non-resident individuals.
Applying for an ITIN can be done through three main methods:
The IRS requires documents to verify identity and foreign status when applying for an ITIN. A passport is the only standalone document accepted for both purposes. Without a passport, you’ll need to provide a combination of two different documents, such as:
How long does it take to receive an ITIN?
If the application is complete and valid, you can receive your ITIN within 8-11 weeks of submitting the application.
Can you get both an ITIN and an SSN?
No, if you’re eligible for an SSN, you won’t need to register for an ITIN.
What are the benefits of an ITIN?
An ITIN helps foreigners comply with tax obligations, open a bank account, and apply for tax credits like the Child Tax Credit. It also helps provide proof of residence, an important factor when settling in the US.
This article has explained what an ITIN is, the registration process, the necessary documents, and the benefits an ITIN brings to people living and working in the US. Owning an ITIN helps ensure you fully comply with tax regulations and receive practical benefits in life in the US. If you need support applying for an ITIN, contact AWE Legal for the most detailed consulting and guidance. We’re always ready to support you through every legal procedure in the US, helping you start your new journey smoothly and safely!
📩 If you have questions about the cost of getting an ITIN as well as the procedures. Contact 𝑨𝑾𝑬 𝑳𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒍 today for the fastest and most effective support!
