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Aug 21, 2026
The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is an important tool for individuals who aren’t US citizens but have a tax obligation in the US. Issued by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the ITIN helps these individuals fulfill their tax obligations and opens up many opportunities to access financial services as well as participate in business activities in the US. In this article, let’s explore with AWE Legal in more detail what an ITIN is and how it affects individuals newly settling and working in the US. We’ll also look at how to register, from the process and document requirements to important notes.
The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a number issued by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to people who aren’t US citizens but have a US tax-filing obligation. The ITIN is designed to support foreign nationals, especially those awaiting legal residency status, in filing taxes. Importantly, the ITIN has nothing to do with immigration law, and the IRS doesn’t share applicant information with other government agencies.
An ITIN is a string of 9 digits, starting with the number 9, in the format 9XX-XX-XXXX. Don’t confuse the ITIN with the Social Security Number (SSN), which is also a 9-digit string but issued by the Social Security Administration.
The IRS uses the ITIN to process and track taxes from individuals not eligible for an SSN. Although an ITIN doesn’t grant Social Security benefits or the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), it allows registering for the Child Tax Credit, worth $3,600 for children under 6 and $3,000 for children aged 7-18, depending on family income.
In addition, an ITIN lets people without an SSN open a US bank account. An ITIN can also be used to get a driver’s license and serve as proof of residence, but it can’t be used to apply for legal work or receive EITC and Social Security benefits.
An ITIN is necessary for foreign nationals residing in the US without an SSN. Anyone working and filing taxes in the US needs an ITIN. If you already have an ITIN, your spouse and dependents may also be able to get an ITIN.
An SSN is the official tax-identification number for US citizens and some other residents, for determining income tax and benefits. An SSN is used to track income, years worked, and assess financial benefits like pension, health insurance, and unemployment benefits.
Although an ITIN can be used in place of an SSN for certain purposes like opening a bank account, a foreign national can’t use an ITIN to apply for a passport or request Social Security benefits.
There are currently three methods to register for an ITIN:
The IRS currently accepts 13 different types of documents to prove identity and foreign status. Documents must be current and show foreign-national status.
A passport is the only standalone document that can confirm both identity and foreign status. Without a passport, you need to combine two or more other documents, such as:
Always check the IRS website to stay updated on ITIN-related changes.
Registering for an ITIN is an important step for individuals with a tax obligation in the United States. As long as you clearly understand the process and fully prepare your documents, you can easily complete registration and take advantage of the benefits it brings.
Contact AWE Legal for detailed consulting and support during the ITIN registration process, ensuring you comply with regulations correctly and optimize your business opportunities in the US. We’re always here, ready to accompany you on your journey to grow and expand into the market!
