ITIN Application & Form W-7 Instructions

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is required for the sole purpose of filing a U.S. personal federal tax return.

It is issued by the IRS to U.S. non-residents who:

  • Do not have a U.S. Social Security Number.
  • Do not meet the requirements to obtain one.

Three Ways to Apply for an ITIN

1 By Mail or Delivery Services

Mail the following:

  • Form W-7 (Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
  • Your federal tax return
  • Original proof of identity documents, such as an original passport. Without a passport, you need to mail two other original documents: one to prove identity, and another to prove foreign status.

Mail to:
Internal Revenue Service
Austin Service Center
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342

Or deliver to:
Internal Revenue Service ITIN Operation
Mail Stop 6090-AUSC
3651 S. Interregional, Hwy 35
Austin, TX 78741-0000

We don’t suggest using this option. If your submission is inaccurate or incomplete, or if your documents are not valid, your application will be rejected. This can result in long delays that can lead to late tax return filing, late filing penalties, and interest.

Also, it may take up to twelve weeks or longer for the IRS to return your documents.

2 In Person

If there is an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center location near you when you visit the U.S., this will be a faster option than mail or delivery. However, as with mail or delivery, you still run the risk of your application being rejected.

You can search for a Taxpayer Assistance Center here:
https://apps.irs.gov/app/officeLocator/index.jsp

3 Through a Certifying Acceptance Agent ITIN Service Provider

Service providers, such as FIRPTA GLOBAL, can authenticate your documents virtually or in person and submit them electronically to the IRS.

This makes the process simpler, more convenient, and eliminates mailing delays.

Can I Get an ITIN Number Online?

The IRS does not have an option for submitting your ITIN application online. You must use one of the three options above.

Form W-7 Instructions

The IRS has detailed instructions on its website: IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/iw7.pdf

Following is an overview of the instructions.

1 Application Type

Is this application for an ITIN renewal or a new ITIN?

2 Reasons for submitting Your Form W-7

Two of the more common reasons are:

  1. You are a spouse or dependent of a U.S. citizen.
  2. You are required to file a U.S. federal tax return for one of the following reasons:
  • You are applying for a FIRPTA withholding tax exemption
  • The sale of any U.S. real estate or U.S. real property under FIRPTA
  • Income from U.S. employment
  • U.S. business or trade
  • Rental income from U.S. real estate
  • U.S. royalties
  • U.S. lottery, prize, or gambling winnings

3 Documents Required for an ITIN Application

You are required to submit original or certified copies of documents that prove your foreign status and your identity. A valid passport proves both. In the absence of a valid passport, you must submit two other documents, such as a driver’s license, a birth certificate, or a U.S. Visa.

4 Basic Information required

  • Your full name as shown on your birth certificate
  • Mailing address
  • Date of birth
  • Country of citizenship
  • Type of identity documents submitted
  • An expired ITIN, if you had one in the past

Making Your ITIN Application Easy

The IRS will reject applications if the submission is incomplete or inaccurate, or if the documents are invalid. This results in long delays that can lead to late filing of your tax returns, resulting in penalties for late filing and interest charges. Additionally, there is a chance that your documents will be lost.

We can help you obtain your ITIN number quickly and easily. We are authorized to authenticate your documents and your identity virtually or in person and submit your application to the IRS. This saves you:

  • The long delay in getting your identity documents returned to you.
  • A visit to an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
  • The time takes to reapply if your application is rejected.

From start to finish, we’ve got FIRPTA covered so you can breathe easy.

Let FIRPTA GLOBAL Handle Your FIRPTA Needs

Our services can be provided virtually or in person. Contact us to start the process!

Edit Template
Book a
Consult