Section references are to the Internal Revenue Code unless otherwise noted.
For the latest information about developments related to Form W-7 and its instructions, such as legislation enacted after they were published, go to IRS.gov/FormW7.
Conversion to generic dates.
We converted specific dates to generic dates wherever possible so these instructions would remain applicable even in years when they aren’t updated.
Line 1a.
We clarify that you should properly identify your full name.
Renewal applications.
All Form W-7 renewal applications must include a U.S. federal tax return unless you meet an exception to the requirement. See Exceptions Tables, later, for more information.
Expanded discussion of allowable tax benefit.
Spouses and dependents are not eligible for an ITIN or to renew an ITIN unless they are claimed for an allowable tax benefit or they file their own tax return. See Allowable tax benefit , later, for more information.
Expired ITINs.
If your ITIN wasn’t included on at least one U.S. federal tax return for the last 3 consecutive tax years, it will expire on December 31 of the third consecutive tax year, and must be renewed before being used again on a U.S. federal tax return.
ITINs with middle digits (the fourth and fifth positions) “70,” “71,” “72,” “73,” “74,” “75,” “76,” “77,” “78,” “79,” “80,” “81,” “82,” “83,” “84,” “85,” “86,” “87,” or “88” have expired. In addition, ITINs with middle digits “90,”“91,”“92,”“94,”“95,”“96,”“97,”“98,” or “99,” IF assigned before 2013 , have expired.
If you previously submitted a renewal application and it was approved, you do not need to renew again. Otherwise, see How To Apply , later, for more information.
Information returns.
If your ITIN is only being used on information returns for reporting purposes, you don’t need to renew your ITIN at this time. However, in the future, if you need to use the ITIN to file a U.S. federal tax return, you will need to renew the ITIN at that time.
Dependent applicants must specify their relationship to the U.S. citizen/resident alien.
An applicant who chooses reason d must enter the relationship he or she has to the U.S. citizen/resident alien in the designated space on Form W-7.
The passport isn’t a stand-alone document for certain dependents if no date of entry into the United States is present.
A passport that doesn’t have a date of entry into the United States won’t be accepted as a stand-alone identification document for certain dependents. See Proof of U.S. residency for applicants who are dependents under Supporting Documentation Requirements , later, for more information.
Change of address.
It’s important that the IRS is aware of your current mailing address. This address is used to mail notices about your Form W-7, including notification of your assigned ITIN, and return your original supporting documentation. If you move before you receive your ITIN, notify us of your current mailing address immediately, so we may update our records. You may send a letter to the IRS using the address under Where To Apply , later.
What’s an ITIN.
An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to individuals who are required for federal tax purposes to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but who don’t have and aren’t eligible to get a social security number (SSN).
Use Form W-7 for the following purposes.
If your ITIN is only used on information returns filed with the IRS by third parties, you don’t have to renew your ITIN even if the ITIN has expired for purposes of filing a U.S. federal tax return. However, in the future, if you file an income tax return, you will need to renew your ITIN at that time.
The ITIN is for federal tax purposes only.
An ITIN doesn’t entitle you to social security benefits and doesn’t change your immigration status or your right to work in the United States.
The ITIN can’t be used to claim certain federal tax credits.
Individuals filing tax returns using an ITIN aren’t eligible for the earned income credit (EIC). Also, a child who has an ITIN can’t be counted as a qualifying child in figuring the amount of the EIC. For more information, see Pub. 596, Earned Income Credit (EIC). Also, for tax years 2018 through 2025, a child who has an ITIN can’t be claimed as a qualifying child for purposes of the child tax credit and the additional child tax credit. For more information, see Schedule 8812 (Form 1040), Credits for Qualifying Children and Other Dependents, and its instructions. If an ITIN is applied for on or before the due date of a return (including extensions) and the IRS issues an ITIN as a result of the application, the IRS will consider the ITIN as issued on or before the due date of the return. See the instructions for your U.S. federal tax return for more information.
The ITIN may not be required for an electing small business trust (ESBT) election.
A nonresident alien who is a potential current beneficiary of an ESBT and who is not otherwise required to have a taxpayer identification number for U.S. tax purposes does not need a taxpayer identification number to make a valid ESBT election.
Social security numbers.
Don’t complete Form W-7 if you have an SSN or if you’re eligible to get an SSN. You’re eligible for an SSN if you’re a U.S. citizen or if you’ve been admitted by the United States for permanent residence or U.S. employment.
To get an SSN, see Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. To get Form SS-5 or to find out if you’re eligible to get an SSN, go to SSA.gov or contact a Social Security Administration (SSA) office.
If you have an application for an SSN pending, don’t file Form W-7. Complete Form W-7 only if the SSA notifies you that you’re ineligible for an SSN.
If the SSA determines that you’re not eligible for an SSN, you must get a letter of denial and attach it to your Form W-7. This applies whether you’re attaching Form W-7 to your U.S. federal tax return or not. However, students, professors, and researchers, see information for box f, later.
Once you are issued an SSN, use it to file your tax return. Use your SSN to file your tax return even if your SSN does not authorize employment or if you have been issued an SSN that authorizes employment and you lose your employment authorization. An ITIN will not be issued to you once you have been issued an SSN. If you received your SSN after previously using an ITIN, stop using your ITIN. Use your SSN instead.
Allowable tax benefit.
For tax years after December 31, 2017, spouses and dependents are NOT eligible for an ITIN or to renew an ITIN unless they are claimed for an allowable tax benefit or they file their own tax return. Spouses and dependents must be listed on an attached U.S. federal tax return and include the schedule or form that applies to the allowable tax benefit. An allowable tax benefit includes a spouse filing a joint return, head of household (HOH), American opportunity tax credit (AOTC), premium tax credit (PTC), child and dependent care credit (CDCC), or credit for other dependents (ODC).
If Form W-7 is submitted to claim the HOH filing status, then an attached tax return that lists the applicant as a dependent is required. Dependent applicants must be your qualifying children or qualifying relatives and must either:
An ITIN will not be assigned or renewed for an HOH qualifying person who is not also claimed as a dependent on an attached tax return.
If Form W-7 is submitted to claim the AOTC, then an attached tax return and Form 8863 that list the applicant are required. Dependent applicants must be qualifying children or qualifying relatives of the taxpayer who claims the AOTC. See Pub. 970 for more information.
If Form W-7 is submitted to claim the PTC, then an attached tax return that lists the applicant and Form 8962 are required. See Pub. 974 for more information.
If Form W-7 is submitted to claim the CDCC, then an attached tax return and Form 2441 that list the applicant as a qualifying person are required. See Pub. 503 for more information.
If Form W-7 is submitted to claim the ODC, the applicant must be listed on an attached tax return with the “Credit for other dependents” box checked next to their name. Dependent applicants must be your qualifying children or qualifying relatives who are U.S. residents or U.S. nationals. See Schedule 8812 (Form 1040) and its instructions for more information.
The following individuals are eligible to complete Form W-7.
The deduction for personal exemptions was suspended for tax years 2018 through 2025. For tax years beginning after 2017, spouses or dependents aren’t eligible for an ITIN, unless they are claimed for an allowable tax benefit. The individual must be listed on an attached U.S. federal tax return with the schedule or form that applies to the allowable tax benefit. See the instructions for your U.S. federal tax return for more information.
For more information, visit IRS.gov/ITIN.
Publications.
See Pubs. 501, 515, 519, and 1915 for more information.
You can visit IRS.gov/Forms to download these publications as well as other forms at no cost. Otherwise, you can go to IRS.gov/OrderForms to order current and prior-year forms and instructions. Your order should be mailed to you within 10 business days. You can also call 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676) if you’re in the United States to order forms and publications.
Telephone help.
If, after reading these instructions and our free publications, you’re not sure how to complete your application or have additional questions, call 800-829-1040 if you’re in the United States. If you’re outside of the United States, call 267-941-1000 (not a toll-free number) for assistance.
Whether you are applying for a new ITIN or renewing an existing ITIN, you must provide documentation that meets the following requirements.
There are 13 acceptable documents, as shown in the following table. At least one document must contain your photograph, unless you’re a dependent under age 14 (under age 18 if a student). You may later be required by the IRS to provide a certified translation of foreign-language documents.
| Supporting Documentation | Can be used to establish: | |
|---|---|---|
| Foreign status | Identity | |
| Passport (the only stand-alone document*) | x | x |
| U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) photo identification | x | x |
| Visa issued by the U.S. Department of State | x | x |
| U.S. driver’s license | x | |
| U.S. military identification card | x | |
| Foreign driver’s license | x | |
| Foreign military identification card | x | x |
| National identification card (must contain name, photograph, address, date of birth, and expiration date) | x | x |
| U.S. state identification card | x | |
| Foreign voter’s registration card | x | x |
| Civil birth certificate | x** | x |
| Medical records (valid only for dependents under age 6) | x** | x |
| School records (valid only for a dependent under age 18, if a student) | x** | x |
| * Applicants claimed as dependents who need to prove U.S. residency must provide additional original documentation if the passport doesn’t have a date of entry into the United States. See Proof of U.S. residency for applicants who are dependents below. ** May be used to establish foreign status only if documents are foreign. | ||
If you submit an original valid passport or a certified copy from the issuing agency, you don’t need to submit any other documents from the table, unless the passport is for a dependent and it doesn’t include a date of entry into the United States.
A passport that doesn’t have a date of entry into the United States won’t be accepted as a stand-alone identification document for dependents, unless they are from Canada or Mexico, or are dependents of U.S. military personnel stationed overseas. In these cases, applicants will be required to submit at least one of the following original documents in addition to the passport to prove U.S. residency.
If you check box d for a dependent of a U.S. citizen or resident alien, then you may submit an original valid passport (or a certified copy from the issuing agency) without any other documents to prove your “foreign status” or “identity” only if the passport has a date of entry into the United States. Otherwise, you must submit one of the additional documents listed earlier in the “Supporting Documentation” table with your passport to prove residency. If you don’t have one of the additional documents listed earlier in the “Supporting Documentation” table to submit with your passport, you can’t use your passport as a stand-alone supporting document and must submit at least two types of documents listed in the “Supporting Documentation” table that prove residency, identity, and foreign status, and that meet the photograph requirement explained earlier.
An original birth certificate is required if the applicant is under age 18 and hasn’t provided a valid passport. Civil birth certificates are considered current at all times because they don’t contain an expiration date.
These documents will be considered current only if their expiration date hasn’t passed prior to the date the Form W-7 is submitted.
Certified copies of a passport from the issuing agency must include the U.S. visa pages if a visa is required for your Form W-7 application.
Medical records will be accepted for dependents under 6 years of age. A medical record consists only of a shot/immunization record that documents the patient's name and chronological dates of the patient's medical history and care. The medical record must contain the child’s name, date of birth, and verifiable address. Shot/immunization records will be accepted only if they document the applicant’s name and chronological dates of the applicant’s medical history and care. In addition, the medical record must document the name, address, and phone number of the doctor, hospital, or clinic where treatment was last administered. If this information isn’t printed on the medical record, the medical record must be accompanied by a dated letter providing the required information on official letterhead from the federal authority, physician, hospital, or clinic that administered the latest care of the child. The medical record must be dated no more than 12 months before the date of the Form W-7 application. If the passport doesn’t have a date of entry into the United States, the medical record must be from a U.S. facility, unless the applicant is a dependent of U.S. military personnel stationed overseas or is from Canada or Mexico and the applicant is claimed for an allowable tax benefit.
School records will be accepted only if they are for a school term ending no more than 12 months from the date of the Form W-7 application. The school record must consist of an official report card or transcript issued by the school or the equivalent of a Ministry of Education. The school record must also be signed by a school official or ministry official. The record must be dated and contain the student’s name, coursework with grades (unless under age 6), date of grading period(s) (unless under age 6) for a term ending no more than 12 months from the date of the Form W-7 application, and school name and address. If the passport doesn’t have a date of entry into the United States, the school record must be from a U.S. facility, unless the applicant is a dependent of U.S. military personnel stationed overseas or is from Canada or Mexico and the applicant is claimed for an allowable tax benefit.
Follow the guidelines below if you’re applying for a new ITIN or renewing an existing ITIN.
For your convenience, you can access fillable Form W-7 at IRS.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw7.pdf, complete, print, then sign the Form W-7.
Keep a copy of your application for your records.
Applying for an ITIN for the first time.
If you’ve never had an ITIN before and are submitting an application for a new ITIN, include the following in your Application Package .
If you submit a Form W-7, all future ITIN notices and correspondence that you receive will be in English. If you prefer to receive them in Spanish, submit Form W-7(SP).
Renewal of an existing ITIN.
If your ITIN has expired and the ITIN will be included on a U.S. federal tax return, follow the guidelines below to submit your renewal application. If your ITIN won’t be included on a U.S. federal tax return, you don’t need to renew your ITIN at this time.
If you don’t renew the expired ITIN and you file a U.S. federal tax return with the expired ITIN, there may be a delay in processing your tax return.
Include the following in your Renewal Application Package .
Spouses and dependents who renew their ITIN to be claimed for an allowable tax benefit must be listed on an attached U.S. federal tax return with the schedule or form that applies to the allowable benefit or, in the case of the credit for other dependents, the box next to their name must be checked on the attached tax return.
Certified copies.
You can submit copies of original documents if you do any of the following.
Deceased taxpayers.
When requesting an ITIN for a deceased taxpayer, the deceased must meet all of the requirements established to get an ITIN. Also, you must write “Deceased” and the date of death across the top of the Form W-7 and include the documentation shown in the following chart.
ITIN not needed for Forms 4868, 1040-ES, or 1040-ES (NR).
If you’re filing an application for an extension of time to file using Form 4868, or making an estimated tax payment using Form 1040-ES or Form 1040-ES (NR), don’t file Form W-7 with those forms. Enter “ITIN TO BE REQUESTED” wherever your SSN or ITIN is requested. An ITIN will be issued only after you file a tax return and meet all other requirements.
If you attached your tax return to your Form W-7, leave the area of the SSN blank on the new tax return for each person who is applying for an ITIN.
First-time ITIN applications.
If you’re applying for a new ITIN, complete and attach Form W-7 to the front of your tax return and file your application package with your tax return for which the ITIN is needed on or before the due date for the return. If you’re unable to file your tax return by the due date, you must file an application for an extension of time to file by the due date of the return. Failure to timely file the tax return with a complete Form W-7 and required documentation may result in the denial of refundable credits, such as the additional child tax credit (available for tax years prior to 2018) and the American opportunity tax credit, if you otherwise qualify. Don’t file your tax return without Form W-7 and required documentation.
If you meet one of the exceptions described in Exceptions Tables at the end of these instructions, you may complete and submit Form W-7 at any time.
You can’t electronically file (e-file) a return using an ITIN in the calendar year the ITIN is assigned. If you need to file multiple-year returns, you can attach them all to your Form W-7 and submit them to the IRS using one of the methods described later in Where To Apply. Once your ITIN is assigned, you can e-file returns in the following years. For example, if you apply for and receive an ITIN this year, you may not e-file any tax return using that ITIN (including prior-year returns) until next year.
Renewal ITIN applications.
If you’re renewing an existing ITIN, you must submit your Form W-7 renewal application with your U.S. federal tax return using one of the methods described below in Where To Apply . Spouses and dependents who renew their ITIN must be listed on an attached U.S. federal tax return with the schedule or form that applies to the allowable tax benefit. If you don’t renew your expired ITIN and you file a U.S. federal tax return with the expired ITIN, there may be a delay in processing your tax return.
By mail.
Mail Form W-7, your tax return (if applicable) or other documents required by an exception, and the documentation described under Supporting Documentation Requirements , earlier, to:
Internal Revenue Service
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
If you mail your application, don’t use the mailing address in the instructions for your tax return (for example, Form 1040-NR). Your tax return will be processed after it is mailed as part of your application package to the address in these instructions.
By private delivery services.
If you use a private delivery service, submit your Form W-7, your tax return (if applicable) or other documents required by an exception, and the documentation described under Supporting Documentation Requirements , earlier, to:
Internal Revenue Service
ITIN Operation
Mail Stop 6090-AUSC
3651 S. Interregional, Hwy 35
Austin, TX 78741-0000
The private delivery service can tell you how to get written proof of the mailing date.
In person.
You can apply for your ITIN by visiting designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs). They can verify original documentation and certified copies of the documentation from the issuing agency for primary and secondary applicants and their dependents. For dependents, TACs can verify passports, national identification cards, and birth certificates. These documents will be returned to you immediately. Service at TACs is by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 844-545-5640. See IRS.gov/W7DocumentVerification for a list of designated TACs that offer ITIN document authentication service. TACs that don’t offer ITIN document authentication service will mail the original documents, Form W-7, and the tax return to the IRS Austin Service Center for processing.
Through an acceptance agent.
You can also apply through one of the two types of acceptance agents authorized by the IRS.
AAs and CAAs are available both domestically and abroad.
An AA can help you complete and file Form W-7. To get a list of agents, visit IRS.gov and enter “acceptance agent program” in the search box. An AA will need to submit original documentation or certified copies of the documentation from the issuing agency to the IRS for all applicants.
A CAA can verify original documentation and certified copies of the documentation from the issuing agency for primary and secondary applicants and their dependents, except for foreign military identification cards. For dependents, CAAs can only verify passports and birth certificates. The CAA will return the documentation immediately after reviewing its authenticity.
Processing times.
Allow 7 weeks for the IRS to notify you of your ITIN application status (9 to 11 weeks if you submit the application during peak processing periods (January 15 through April 30) or if you’re filing from overseas). If you haven’t received your ITIN or correspondence at the end of that time, you can call the IRS to find out the status of your application (see Telephone help , earlier).
If you’re completing this form for someone else, answer the questions as they apply to that individual.
Check the applicable box to indicate if you’re:
You must check the box to indicate the reason you’re completing Form W-7 even if you’re applying to renew your ITIN. If more than one box applies to you, check the box that best explains your reason for submitting Form W-7. A selection must be made in this section.
If you check box a or f, then box h may also be checked. If applicable, you must also enter the treaty country and treaty article. For more information on treaties, see Pub. 901, U.S. Tax Treaties.
a. Nonresident alien required to get an ITIN to claim tax treaty benefit.
Certain nonresident aliens must get an ITIN to claim certain tax treaty benefits even if they don’t have to file a U.S. federal tax return. If you check this box to claim the benefits of a U.S. income tax treaty with a foreign country, also check box h. On the dotted line next to box h, enter the appropriate designation for Exception 1 or 2, whichever applies (see Exception 1 and Exception 2 , later). Identify the exception by its number, alpha subsection, and category under which you’re applying (for example, enter “Exception 1d-Pension Income” or “Exception 2d-Gambling Winnings”). Also, enter the name of the treaty country and treaty article number in the appropriate entry spaces below box h and attach the documents required under whichever exception applies. For more details on tax treaties, see Pub. 901.
b. Nonresident alien filing a U.S. federal tax return.
This category includes:
If you choose reason b, you must provide a complete foreign address on line 3.
c. U.S. resident alien (based on days present in the United States) filing a U.S. federal tax return.
A foreign individual living or present in the United States for a certain number of days (that is, meeting the test known as the “substantial presence” test) who doesn’t have permission to work from the USCIS, and is ineligible for an SSN, may still be required to file a U.S. federal tax return. These individuals must check this box and include a date of entry into the United States on line 6d. For information about the substantial presence test, see Pub. 519.
d. Dependent of U.S. citizen/resident alien.
This is an individual who can be claimed as a dependent on a U.S. federal tax return and isn’t eligible to get an SSN. Your spouse is never considered your dependent. See Pubs. 501 and 519. Dependents of U.S. military personnel can submit original documents, certified copies or notarized copies of identification documents. A copy of the servicemember’s U.S. military ID will be required or the applicant must be applying from an overseas APO/FPO address. A copy of the servicemember’s U.S. military ID is required to be included with the application if the documents are notarized.
If you’re applying for an ITIN under this category, you must provide the relationship (for example, parent, child, grandchild, etc.) of the dependent to the U.S. citizen/resident alien. Enter the information on the dotted line in the space provided.
Also, if you’re applying for an ITIN under this category, you must provide the full name and SSN or ITIN of the U.S. citizen/resident alien. Enter the information on the dotted line in the space provided and include a date of entry into the United States on line 6d, unless the applicant is a dependent of U.S. military personnel stationed overseas or is from Canada or Mexico and the applicant is claimed for an allowable tax benefit.
If you live abroad and requested an adoption taxpayer identification number (ATIN) for a foreign child you adopted or who has been legally placed in your home pending adoption and that request was denied, your dependent may be eligible for an ITIN. When submitting your Form W-7, make sure that you include a copy of the legal documents verifying your relationship to the child.
Dependents can be claimed as personal exemptions only for tax years prior to 2018. However, the credit for other dependents (ODC) for your child and other qualifying relatives (excluding your spouse) who live in the United States may be available. See the instructions for your U.S. federal tax return for more information.
e. Spouse of U.S. citizen/resident alien.
This category includes:
Spouses of U.S. military personnel can submit original documents, certified copies, or notarized copies of identification documents. A copy of the servicemember’s U.S. military ID will be required or the applicant must be applying from an overseas APO/FPO address. A copy of the servicemember’s U.S. military ID is required to be included with the application if the documents are notarized.
If you’re applying for an ITIN under this category, you must provide the full name and SSN or ITIN of the U.S. citizen/resident alien. Enter the information on the dotted line in the space provided.
A spouse can be claimed as a personal exemption only for tax years prior to 2018.
f. Nonresident alien student, professor, or researcher filing a U.S. federal tax return or claiming an exception.
This is an individual who hasn’t abandoned his or her residence in a foreign country and who is a bona fide student, professor, or researcher coming temporarily to the United States solely to attend classes at a recognized institution of education, to teach, or to perform research. For more information about the U.S. tax rules that apply to foreign students, professors, or researchers, see Pub. 519.
If you check this box, you must complete lines 6a, 6c, 6d, and 6g, and provide your passport with a valid U.S. visa. No U.S. visa needs to be provided if the foreign address is Canada, Mexico, or Bermuda. If you’re present in the United States on a work-related visa (F-1, J-1, or M-1), but won’t be employed (that is, your presence in the United States is study related), you can choose to attach a letter from the Designated School Official (DSO) or Responsible Officer (RO) instead of applying to the SSA for an SSN. The letter must clearly state that you won’t be securing employment while in the United States and your presence here is solely study related. This letter can be submitted instead of a Social Security Administration denial letter if you’re filing a tax return with this Form W-7 or claiming Exception 2 (explained later).
Nonresident alien students and exchange visitors, their spouses, and dependents under the Student Exchange Visitors Program (SEVP) claiming Exception 2 (no tax return attached) can have their original ID certified by an SEVP-approved institution, rather than mailing originals to the IRS. These are individuals admitted to the United States under an F, J, or M visa who receive taxable scholarships, fellowships, or other grants.
If you check this box to claim an exception under the benefits of a U.S. income tax treaty with a foreign country, also check box h. On the dotted line next to box h, enter the appropriate designation for Exception 2 , explained later. Identify the exception by its number, alpha subsection, and category under which you’re applying (for example, enter “Exception 2b-Scholarship Income and claiming tax treaty benefits” or “Exception 2c-Scholarship Income”). Also, enter the name of the treaty country and the treaty article number in the appropriate entry spaces below box h (if applicable) and attach the documents required under Exception 2 .
g. Dependent/spouse of a nonresident alien holding a U.S. visa.
This is an individual who can be claimed as a dependent for any tax year, or is a spouse on a U.S. federal tax return for a tax year before 2018, who is unable, or not eligible, to get an SSN, and who has entered the United States with a nonresident alien who holds a U.S. visa. If you apply for an ITIN under this category, remember to attach a copy of your visa to your Form W-7 and include a date of entry into the United States on line 6d.
Dependents and spouses can be claimed as personal exemptions only for tax years prior to 2018.
h. Other.
If the reason for your ITIN request isn’t described in boxes a through g, check this box. Describe in detail your reason for requesting an ITIN and attach supporting documents.
Frequently, third parties (such as banks and other financial institutions) that are subject to information-reporting and withholding requirements will request an ITIN from you to enable them to file information returns required by law. If you’re requesting an ITIN for this reason, you may be able to claim one of the exceptions described later. Enter on the dotted line next to box h the exception that applies to you. Identify the exception by its number, alpha subsection (if applicable), and category under which you’re applying (for example, enter “Exception 1a-Partnership Income” or “Exception 3-Mortgage Interest”). Examples of completed Forms W-7 for “Exceptions” can be found in Pub. 1915. You won’t need to attach a tax return to your Form W-7.
This exception may apply if you’re the recipient of partnership income, interest income, annuity income, rental income, or other passive income that’s subject to third-party withholding or covered by tax treaty benefits. See Exceptions Tables , later, for more details on Exception 1.
Information returns applicable to Exception 1 may include the following.
Applicants receiving compensation for personal services performed in the United States, or issued a U.S. visa that’s valid for employment, should first apply for an SSN with the SSA. Unless you’re denied an SSN by the SSA and attach the denial letter to your Form W-7, you aren’t eligible for an ITIN.
If you’re required to file a federal tax return, then you aren’t eligible for Exception 1.
This exception may apply if:
See Exceptions Tables , later, for more details on Exception 2. Information returns applicable to Exception 2 may include Form 1042-S.
This exception may apply if you have a home mortgage loan on real property you own in the United States that’s subject to third-party reporting of mortgage interest. See Exceptions Tables , later, for more details on Exception 3. Information returns applicable to Exception 3 may include Form 1098, Mortgage Interest Statement.
This exception may apply if you’re a party to a disposition of a U.S. real property interest by a foreign person, which is generally subject to withholding by the transferee or buyer (withholding agent). This exception may also apply if you have a notice of non-recognition under Regulations section 1.1445-2(d)(2). See Exceptions Tables , later, for more details on Exception 4.
Information returns applicable to Exception 4 may include the following.
This exception may apply if you have an IRS reporting requirement as a non-U.S. representative of a foreign corporation who needs to obtain an ITIN for the purpose of meeting their e-filing requirement under T.D. 9363 and you are submitting Form W-7. See Exceptions Tables , later, for more details on Exception 5.
If you’re applying for an ITIN under this exception, enter “Exception 5, T.D. 9363” on the dotted line next to box h.
Enter “N/A” (not applicable) on all sections of each line that don’t apply to you. Don’t leave any section blank. For example, line 4 should have three separate entries.
Line 1a.
Enter your legal name on line 1a as it appears on your identifying documents. Be sure to properly identify your first, middle, and last names. This entry should reflect your name as it’ll appear on a U.S. federal tax return.
If you’re renewing your ITIN and your legal name has changed since the original assignment of your ITIN, you’ll need to submit documentation to support your legal name change, such as your marriage certificate or a court order, which may include a divorce decree. Attach supporting documentation to Form W-7.
Your ITIN will be established using this name. If you don’t use this name on the U.S. federal tax return, the processing of the U.S. federal tax return may be delayed.
Line 1b.
Enter your name as it appears on your birth certificate if it’s different from your entry on line 1a.
Line 2.
Enter your complete mailing address on line 2. This is the address the IRS will use to return your original documents and send written notification of your ITIN application status.
The IRS won’t use the address you enter to update its records for other purposes unless you include a U.S. federal tax return with your Form W-7. If you aren’t including a U.S. federal tax return with your Form W-7 and you changed your home mailing address since you filed your last U.S. federal tax return, also file Form 8822, Change of Address, with the IRS at the address listed in the Form 8822 instructions.
If the U.S. Postal Service won’t deliver mail to your physical location, enter the U.S. Postal Service’s post office box number for your mailing address. Contact your local U.S. Post Office for more information. Don’t use a post office box owned and operated by a private firm or company.
Line 3.
Enter your complete foreign (non-U.S.) address in the country where you permanently or normally reside, even if it’s the same as the address on line 2. If you no longer have a permanent foreign residence due to your relocation to the United States, enter only the foreign country where you last resided on line 3. If you’re claiming a benefit under an income tax treaty with the United States, the income tax treaty country must be the same as the country listed on line 3.
If you choose reason b, you must provide a complete foreign address on line 3.
Don’t use a post office box or an “in care of”
(c/o) address instead of a street address on line 2 if you’re entering just a “country” name on line 3. If you do, your application may be rejected.
Line 4.
Enter your date of birth in the month/day/year (MM/DD/YYYY) format, where MM = 1 to 12 and DD = 1 to 31. To be eligible for an ITIN, your birth country must be recognized as a foreign country by the U.S. Department of State.
Line 6a.
Enter the country or countries (in the case of dual citizenship) in which you’re a citizen. Enter the complete country name; don’t abbreviate.
Line 6b.
If your country of residence for tax purposes has issued you a tax identification number, enter that number on line 6b. For example, if you’re a resident of Canada, enter your Canadian social security number (known as the Canadian Social Insurance Number).
Line 6c.
Enter only U.S. nonimmigrant visa information. Include the USCIS classification, number of the U.S. visa, and the expiration date in month/day/year format. For example, if you have an F-1/F-2 visa with the number 123456, enter, in the entry space, F-1/F-2 and 123456, followed by the visa’s expiration date in MM/DD/YYYY format. Individuals in possession of an I-20/I-94 document(s) should attach a copy to their Form W-7.
Line 6d.
Check the box indicating the type of document(s) you’re submitting to prove your identity. Enter the name of the state or country or other issuer, the identification number (if any) appearing on the document(s), the expiration date, and the date on which you entered the United States. Dates must be entered in the month/day/year format.
If you’re submitting a passport, or a certified copy of a passport from the issuing agency, no other documentation is required to prove your identity and foreign status. Ensure any visa information shown on the passport is entered on line 6c and the pages of the passport showing the U.S. visa (if a visa is required for your Form W-7) are included with your Form W-7. A passport that doesn’t have a date of entry into the United States will no longer be accepted as a stand-alone identification document for dependents, unless the dependents are from Canada, Mexico, or are dependents of U.S. military personnel stationed overseas.
If you’re submitting more than one document, enter only the information for the first document on this line. Attach a separate sheet showing the required information for the additional document(s). On the separate sheet, be sure to write your name and “Form W-7” at the top.
The “Date of entry into the United States” must contain the complete date on which you entered the country for the purpose for which you’re requesting an ITIN (if applicable). If you’ve never entered the United States, enter “Never entered the United States” on this line. A passport without an entry date doesn’t prove U.S. residency and may not be used as a stand-alone document for certain dependents. See Supporting Documentation Requirements, earlier.
You entered the United States last year to work. You want to file a tax return for the income you earned in the United States that year. You aren’t eligible to get a social security number. You file Form W-7 with your tax return for that year. On line 6d of your Form W-7, enter, as the “Date of entry into the United States,” the month, day, and year you entered the United States in MM/DD/YYYY format.
Line 6e.
If you ever received an ITIN and/or an Internal Revenue Service Number (IRSN), check the “Yes” box and complete line 6f. If you never had an ITIN or an IRSN, or if you don’t know your ITIN or IRSN, check the No/Don’t know box.
An IRSN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to persons who file a return or make a payment without providing a taxpayer identification number. You would’ve been issued this number if you filed a U.S. federal tax return and didn’t have an SSN. This IRSN will appear on any correspondence the IRS sent you concerning that return.
If you’re submitting Form W-7 to renew your ITIN, you must include your previously assigned ITIN on line 6f to avoid delays in processing your Form W-7.
Line 6f.
If you have an ITIN and/or an IRSN, list them in the space(s) provided. Identify your first, middle, and last name under which the ITIN and/or IRSN was issued. If you were issued more than one IRSN, attach a separate sheet listing all the IRSNs you received. On the separate sheet, be sure to write your name and “Form W-7” at the top.
If you’re submitting Form W-7 to renew your ITIN, the name under which you applied for your ITIN must be included on line 6f to avoid delays in processing your Form W-7.
If you’re renewing your ITIN and your legal name has changed since the original assignment of your ITIN, you’ll need to submit documentation to support your legal name change, such as your marriage certificate or a court order, which may include a divorce decree. Attach supporting documentation to Form W-7.
Line 6g.
If you checked reason f, you must enter the name of the educational institution and the city and state in which it’s located. You must also enter your length of stay in the United States.
If you’re temporarily in the United States for business purposes, you must enter the name of the company with whom you’re conducting your business and the city and state in which it’s located. You must also enter your length of stay in the United States.
Generally, the applicant is required to sign Form W-7. The following are exceptions to this requirement.
Applicant is a dependent under 18 years of age.
If the applicant is a dependent under 18 years of age, his or her parent or court-appointed guardian can sign if the child can’t sign. The parent or court-appointed guardian must type or print his or her name in the space provided and check the appropriate box that indicates his or her relationship to the applicant. If the individual is signing as a court-appointed guardian, a copy of the court-appointment papers showing the legal guardianship must be attached.
Adults, other than a parent or court-appointed guardian, can sign Form W-7 only if a Form 2848, Power of Attorney and Declaration of Representative, has been signed by a parent or court-appointed guardian authorizing the individual to sign for the applicant.
Applicant is a dependent 18 years of age or older.
If an applicant is 18 years of age or older, the applicant or a court-appointed guardian can sign or appoint a parent or another individual to sign. The individual (if other than the applicant) must type or print their name in the space provided and check the appropriate box that indicates their relationship to the applicant. If the individual is signing as a court-appointed guardian, a copy of the court-appointment papers showing the legal guardianship must be attached. Individuals other than the applicant or a court-appointed guardian must attach a Form 2848 from the applicant or court-appointed guardian authorizing them to sign the Form W-7.
A spouse can’t sign for his or her spouse, unless the Power of attorney box is checked and Form 2848 has been attached to Form W-7.
Applicant can’t sign their name.
If an applicant can’t sign his or her name, then the applicant must sign his or her mark (for example, an “X” or a thumbprint) in the presence of a witness. The witness’s signature is also required and must be identified as that of a witness.
All Powers of Attorney (POAs) submitted to the IRS must be in English. Any POAs received in a foreign language will be considered invalid unless accompanied by a certified English translation. The POA must clearly state the purpose for which it’s intended under the Acts authorized section. For more information, go to IRS.gov.
Complete all fields as appropriate and enter the eight-digit office code that was issued to you by the ITIN Program Office.