The acronym ITIN stands for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Any person who needs a tax identification number but is not eligible to obtain a Social Security Number can apply for an ITIN. An ITIN is easy to identify, as it always begins with the number “9.”

An ITIN does not qualify a person to legally work in the United States, nor does it provide eligibility or access to Social Security benefits. ITIN’s are issued by the Internal Revenue Service. The following people should utilize an ITIN number:

Foreign nationals who do not qualify for Social Security Numbers but who have U.S. federal tax reporting requirements or wish to obtain an EIN (Employer Idenfitication Number).

Non-resident aliens not eligible for a Social Security Number who are required to file a United States tax return in order to claim a tax refund.

Resident aliens filing a U.S. tax return

Dependents or spouses of U.S. citizens or resident aliens who have U.S. federal tax reporting requirements

Dependents or spouses of a non-resident alien visa holder who have U.S tax reporting requirements

The ITIN program has not been around for very long. The program began around 1996. It was set up so individuals without Social Security Numbers could file taxes and abide by U.S. tax laws. Get your ITIN now!