The 8 Form W-7 reasons behind the ITIN eligibility check, in plain English
Every application is filed under one of these. Choosing the right one is the most common thing applicants get wrong.
Common questions about the eligibility check
Who passes the ITIN eligibility check?+
Anyone with a federal tax purpose who is not eligible for a Social Security Number.
Do I need a tax return to apply?+
Usually yes, unless an exception applies, such as certain treaty claims.
How long does it take?+
Our preparation takes 5–7 business days on Standard, 2–3 on Priority. IRS processing usually takes around 7 weeks, longer in tax season.
Do I have to send my passport?+
No. Our Certifying Acceptance Agent verifies it on a video call.
Does an ITIN expire?+
Yes, if it is not used on a federal tax return at least once in three consecutive years.
Free eligibility check: find your starting point in 2 minutes
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The 8 Form W-7 reasons behind the ITIN eligibility check, in plain English
Every ITIN application is filed under one of these reasons. Choosing the right one is the most common thing applicants get wrong.
Claiming a tax treaty benefit
Nonresident aliens who need an ITIN to claim a reduced rate of US withholding under a tax treaty.
Filing a US tax return
Nonresident aliens with a US filing requirement, such as rental, business or investment income.
US resident alien filing a return
People treated as US residents for tax because of the days they spent in the US.
Dependent of a US citizen or resident
A dependent who qualifies for an allowable tax benefit on a US return.
Spouse of a US citizen or resident
A spouse filing jointly, or claimed for a tax benefit on a US return.
Student, professor or researcher
Nonresident academics filing a US return or claiming an exception.
Family of a US visa holder
The spouse or dependent of a nonresident alien who holds a US visa.
Other
Situations outside the reasons above, often with an exception to the tax return rule.
ITIN eligibility check: all three of these apply to you
Any of these apply to you
Common questions about the eligibility check
Still unsure after the eligibility check? A specialist can answer in 15 minutes.
Who passes the ITIN eligibility check?+
Anyone who needs a US taxpayer identification number for a federal tax purpose but is not eligible for a Social Security Number. That includes nonresident aliens filing a US return, people claiming tax treaty benefits, and spouses or dependents of US citizens and residents.
Do I need a tax return to apply for an ITIN?+
Usually yes. Most applications must include a federal tax return. Some situations qualify for an exception, such as certain treaty claims or US income with tax withheld. Our check and free call tell you which applies.
How long does it take to get an ITIN?+
Our preparation takes 5–7 business days on Standard or 2–3 on Priority. The IRS then processes the application, which usually takes around 7 weeks, and longer during tax season or for applications from abroad.
Do I have to send my original passport?+
No. As a Certifying Acceptance Agent, we verify your passport on a video call, so there is no need to send it anywhere.
Does an ITIN expire?+
Yes. An ITIN expires if it is not used on a federal tax return at least once in three consecutive years. Expired ITINs can be renewed with a new Form W-7.
Is this eligibility check an official decision?+
No. The eligibility check is a guide based on your answers. The IRS makes the final decision on every ITIN application. Sources: IRS: How to apply for an ITIN · IRS: Form W-7 instructions.