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ITIN
Learn about the benefits of the ITIN
An ITIN number can help you file your taxes and more
WHAT IS AN ITIN
ITIN stands for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. An ITIN works similar to a Social Security Number when you file your taxes each year. If you are working in the United States, you have to pay taxes, regardless of your immigration status. An ITIN is not a work permit.
WHY DO I NEED AN ITIN
Getting an ITIN is important. You can use an ITIN to:
- File your taxes
- Open up a personal bank account
- Start a business
- Build credit
- Get a driver's license
- Get a mortage
- Claim cashback tax credits for low-income workers like the California Earned Income Tax (CalEITC) and Young Child Tax Credit
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO RECIEVE AN ITIN
It varies, once you receive your W-7 it can take from two to eight months.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO APPLY FOR AN ITIN?
There is no fee for applying for an ITIN. You can visit a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center and file your documentation for free. However tax preparers may charge a fee.
WILL AN ITIN AFFECT MY IMMIGRATION STATUS?
Yes! Filing your taxes with an ITIN each year proves that you have earned income, lived in the U.S., and contributed to your state and the country as a taxpayer.
WHAT ABOUT THE "PUBLIC CHARGE" RULE?
Immigration officers consider a lot of factors including whether the government thinks the person is likely to depend too much in public benefits in the future. This is known as "public charge." But "public charge" shouldn't stop you from getting an ITIN.
CAN AN ITIN BE USED TO DEPORT SOMEONE?
NO. Immigration services do not have access to information about ITIN users to search for non-US citizens who are in the country without permission. The IRS keeps this information private, and does not share your information with other government agencies, except in extreme cases.
An ITIN is not related to your immigration status.
DO I NEED TO RENEW MY ITIN?
If you haven't used your ITIN in the last three years, you will need to renew it. The process for renewing an ITIN is the same as the process for applying for a new ITIN.
WHERE CAN I GET HELP WITH GETTING OR RENEWING AN ITIN?
Our community-based organizations provide free ITIN application assistance. These IRS-certified experts can help you prepare W-7 forms, gather the right documents, and verify your identification.
www.irs.gov/individuals/how-do-i-apply-for-an-itin
If you have any additional questions, you can call the IRS toll-free at 800-829-1040 if you are in the United States.
