ITIN application help, with the process explained clearly.
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is for certain people who need a U.S. tax number but are not eligible for a Social Security number. It is a tax-processing number—not work authorization or immigration status.
What normally goes in an ITIN application
The IRS generally requires Form W-7, a federal income-tax return unless an exception applies, and documents that prove identity and foreign status. Each family member applying needs a separate Form W-7. The exact supporting documents depend on the applicant and the reason for requesting the ITIN.
Asega can help organize the tax return, Form W-7 information and application checklist. We review the package for completeness and explain the available submission methods. We do not promise approval, and Asega is not presented as an IRS Acceptance Agent or Certifying Acceptance Agent.
How documents are submitted
The IRS permits applications by mail or in person through an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, participating VITA site or IRS-approved Acceptance Agent. A Certifying Acceptance Agent can authenticate most documents under IRS rules. If document authentication is needed, we help the client identify the appropriate IRS-approved channel instead of implying that Asega can authenticate documents.
Timing and notices
The IRS currently advises allowing about seven weeks for a response, or nine to eleven weeks during peak tax season or for applications submitted from overseas. The IRS may issue a notice assigning the number, requesting more information or rejecting the application. Processing time and approval are controlled by the IRS.
Before you start
Confirm that you are not eligible for an SSN and that an ITIN is actually required for a federal tax purpose. An ITIN cannot be used instead of an SSN for employment. If the number is for a business, you may be looking for an EIN rather than an ITIN.
Official sources
General educational information, not individualized tax, legal or immigration advice. Agency rules and fees can change; confirm current requirements before filing.