Life as a new U.S. immigrant comes with challenges, including navigating complex tax laws without a Social Security Number (SSN). Luckily, the IRS offers a pivotal alternative—the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) application. Though not a work authorization, submitting an ITIN application and getting an ITIN helps non-resident aliens comply with mandatory filing rules, smooth green card/citizenship applications, and access certain contractor payments.

This comprehensive guide empowers SSN-ineligible immigrants with vital insights on securing this essential 9-digit IRS tax processing number. You’ll understand exactly why you need an ITIN, step-by-step Form W-7 application instructions, where to submit paperwork, and pro tips to guarantee rapid approval.

What is an ITIN?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a unique nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who must pay taxes but do not have and are ineligible to get a Social Security Number (SSN).

Some key facts about ITINs:

Used to file required tax returns each year
Issued regardless of immigration status
Does NOT provide authorization to legally work in the US
Valid indefinitely, but may need renewal if not used on a tax return for 3 years

How to apply for an ITIN

To successfully apply for an initial ITIN, you must mail the following documents to the IRS or submit your ITIN application to the IRS through a certifying acceptance agent:

Completed Form W-7
Original federal tax return(s)
Proof of identity and foreign status documents

Let’s break these down step-by-step:

Step 1: Fill out IRS form W-7

This form provides the IRS with all your personal information so they can process your ITIN application.

You’ll need to provide:

Full name and mailing address
Foreign (non-U.S.) address
Date and place of birth
Country(ies) of citizenship
Foreign tax identification number (if any)
U.S. federal tax return filing status
Dependent family members also applying for an ITIN
And more

Make absolutely sure the name and birth date you list matches exactly to the identification documents you submit.

Step 2: Include original federal tax return(s)

Even if you cannot legally work or have any U.S. income, submitting an original tax return is mandatory to get your ITIN application approved.

You’ll need to attach your Form W-7 to the front page of a completed federal income tax return. Leave the social security number box blank.

Some examples include:

Form 1040NR if you plan to claim tax treaty benefits
Form 1040NR-EZ to claim a tax refund
Form 8843 if you have no income tax liability

You must paper file and mail – no e-filing – when submitting with Form W-7!

Step 3: Provide identity and foreign status documents

As proof of ID and foreign nationality status, you’ll need to submit original documents or certified copies such as:

Passport
U.S. visa
U.S. driver’s license/ID card/military ID
National ID card
Foreign driver’s license
Birth certificate

Where to send your ITIN application

Ready to submit? Double check you have all requirements:

Completed W-7 form
Original tax return(s)
Proof of identity & foreign status documents

Then mail to:

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

Make copies before sending in case anything gets lost!

You can also apply in-person at any IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). But you must schedule an appointment by calling 844-545-5640 first. Just don’t forget – no e-filing if submitting with a W-7!

Tips to boost ITIN approval odds

Frustrated by ITIN application rejection? Use these pro tips from tax professionals to avoid common mistakes in your application.

Ensure all names/dates perfectly match on all forms
Include mandatory tax return(s) – even with $0 income
Only send original or certified copies of foreign ID docs
Double-check the mailing address
Make copies before submitting as back-up

Getting approved the first try is key to avoid delays getting your ITIN in time for those all important tax deadlines.

Take the time upfront to ensure you have included everything accurately and completely for smooth sailing approval!

Frequently asked application questions

Still feeling confused on some points of the ITIN application process? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:

What is the purpose of an ITIN?

An ITIN allows non-citizens and non-working immigrants to legally file U.S. tax returns each year. It functions much like a SSN for tax purposes only.

Who exactly needs an ITIN?

Non-resident aliens, such as foreign students, workers, investors and even dependents are required to file taxes each year. An ITIN allows these groups to properly comply even if they cannot work legally or obtain a social security number.

When should I apply?

Submit your Form W-7 ITIN application as soon as possible once you determine you need to file a tax return. This ensures you receive your official IRS-issued ITIN well before tax time.

How much does it cost to get an ITIN?

Applying for and receiving an ITIN is completely free. However, you may need to pay filing fees with your tax return(s).

How long does it take to get approved?

ITIN application processing times range from just 4-6 weeks up to 9 weeks if during peak tax season. Sending accurately completed documents expedites this process.

Key takeaways: Form W-7 ITIN application tips

Getting everything right the first try and avoiding those pesky delays makes applying for an individual taxpayer identification a breeze.

Here are the key steps:

Determine if you need an ITIN for any tax filing/treaty purposes
Thoroughly complete IRS Form W-7 with your personal details
Attach W-7 to original tax return(s) – even $0 income!
Include both proof of ID and foreign status documents
Mail to IRS ITIN Operation or apply in-person at TAC
Patiently await your IRS-issued ITIN in 4-9 weeks!

And remember, take your time and triple check for accuracy before sending in. This saves major headaches and ensures quick approval of your IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

Wrap up: Get your ITIN application right the first try!

We’ve walked through the A-Z of everything you need for ITIN approval with Form W-7.

The secret boils down to meticulous attention to detail. Ensuring every piece – from your personal information to the mailing address – is 100% accurate and complete.

This helps avoid both rejections and delays to get your essential nine-digit ITIN issued promptly through the IRS processing number.

You now have checklists for all requirements to apply for an individual taxpayer identification.

Who exactly needs an ITIN
How to fill out error-free Form W-7
Mandatory tax returns to include
Acceptable identification documents
Where to correctly mail your full application
Extra tips to stay organized and boost approval odds

So avoid tax time headaches – properly file your taxes each year with your own IRS-issued ITIN and consider utilizing tax prep services. Simply follow this comprehensive guide when submitting Form W-7: ITIN application.

The approval process is actually straightforward when you have the right information. Here’s to one less headache on your immigration journey! Good luck!