IRS Certified Acceptance Agent
IRS Certified Acceptance Agent
If you intend to file a U.S. Federal Tax Return, you will require an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). Not everyone, however, qualifies for an ITIN. Check our Eligibility Quiz to see if you qualify.
The IRS requires you to submit the following documents in order to obtain or renew an ITIN.
- Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
- Original proof of identity and foreign status document
There are three ways to apply:
- By mail or private delivery service
- In person, at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center
- Through an IRS Certified Acceptance Agent
For complete details, see ITIN Application & Form W-7 Instructions.
If you are applying on your own, by either Option 1 or 2, there are some drawbacks:
- It can take quite a long time. For example, applying by mail can take up to 12 weeks or longer for the IRS to process and return your documents.
- If your application is inaccurate, incomplete or contains invalid documents, it may be rejected by the IRS.
Applying Through a Certified Acceptance Agent
As defined by the IRS, “An acceptance agent is a person or an entity (business or organization) who, pursuant to a written agreement with the IRS, is authorized to assist individuals and other foreign persons who do not qualify for a Social Security Number but who still need a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) to process a Form 1040 and other tax schedules. The acceptance agent facilitates the application process by reviewing the necessary documents and forwarding completed Forms W-7 to IRS.”
Our CAA accreditation was achieved by:
- Meeting advanced education and training standards, such as being an Enrolled Agent.
- Background and tax compliance checks: Once an application is submitted, the IRS conducts automated suitability checks.
- Completing the IRS forensic document training. The IRS states, “CAAs are required to complete formal forensic document training to obtain the necessary skills to authenticate original identification documents presented to them for use in submitting a Form W-7, IRS Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.”
Why Use an IRS Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA)?
Although you can apply for an ITIN on your own, it can be a time-consuming and exasperating experience. Furthermore, it’s quite likely that your application will be rejected, meaning you’ll have to re-apply.
When you let us handle the application, you can breathe easy. We’ll ensure the IRS processes your application quickly. We will:
- Prepare and submit Form W-7.
- Submit a Certificate of Accuracy, which authenticates your identity and foreign status documents.
- Ensure the proper filing of the application.
Note: Other agents, such as a Notary Public, lawyer, or Commissioner of Oaths, are not authorized by the IRS to authenticate your documents. Your application will be rejected if you use any agents other than Certified Acceptance Agents.
We Take the Pain Out of Applying for an ITIN
A number of our past clients have come to us for help because of one or more rejected applications when they’ve tried to apply on their own.
We’ve successfully helped numerous non-U.S. residents obtain an ITIN in an expedient manner. We can do the same for you.
Have You Sold A U.S. Property?
Do you need an ITIN to file your U.S. tax return for the sale of a U.S. property?
We can help.
We have assisted many foreigners with the very complex requirements of FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act). Refer to our guide: Foreigners Selling Property in the U.S. to learn the details of this process. We take care of the entire process by:
- Assisting your title or escrow with their obligations.
- The preparation and submission of all of the withholding certificate and compliance forms that FIRPTA requires.
Preparation of Your U.S. Tax Returns
After submitting your ITIN application and FIRPTA withholding certificate and compliance forms, the next step is the preparation of your federal U.S. non-resident tax return and, if applicable, U.S. state tax return.
You’re free to choose your U.S. tax provider, but unless they’re familiar with your situation regarding FIRPTA, we’re logically the best choice.
Another Advantage
If you still need more convincing, each of our tax professionals is an IRS Enrolled Agent (EA), unlike many other U.S. tax preparation providers.
The IRS states, “An enrolled agent is a person who has earned the privilege of representing taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service by either passing a three-part comprehensive IRS test covering individual and business tax returns, or through experience as a former IRS employee. Enrolled agent status is the highest credential the IRS awards.”
Stress-Free ITIN Services
As a Certified Acceptance Agent, we’re able to authenticate your foreign status and identity documents, virtually or in person. Contact us today to start the process!
Let FIRPTA GLOBAL Handle Your FIRPTA Needs
Our services can be provided virtually or in person. Contact us to start the process!