Get Your ITIN Number
Fast & Stress-Free
Don’t have a Social Security Number but need to file U.S. taxes, open a bank account, or claim tax treaty benefits? We handle your entire ITIN application or renewal — from Form W-7 preparation and document authentication to IRS submission and follow-up — so you get your number without the confusion.
Your U.S. Tax Identity Number — Without a Social Security Number
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a 9-digit tax processing number issued by the IRS, always beginning with the number “9” and formatted like a Social Security Number (9XX-XX-XXXX). The IRS created the ITIN program in 1996 to allow individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number — including nonresident aliens, undocumented immigrants, foreign investors, students, and dependents — to fulfill their U.S. federal tax obligations legally and accurately.
An ITIN Is Not a Social Security Number — But It’s Just as Important for Tax Filing
Many people confuse an ITIN with a Social Security Number, but they serve entirely different purposes. A Social Security Number is issued by the Social Security Administration and is tied to your eligibility to work and receive government benefits in the United States. An ITIN, by contrast, is issued solely by the IRS for federal tax purposes.
Critically, an ITIN does not authorise you to work in the United States, does not create Social Security benefit eligibility, and has no impact whatsoever on your immigration status. Tax information submitted with an ITIN is protected by federal law — the IRS is generally prohibited from sharing it with other government agencies, including immigration enforcement.
- ✓ 9-digit number always beginning with “9” (e.g. 918-70-XXXX)
- ✓ Used in place of an SSN on all federal tax forms — Form 1040, W-9, etc.
- ✓ Does not affect immigration status or work authorisation
- ✓ Tax information is protected and confidential under federal law
- ✓ Can be obtained regardless of immigration status
- ✓ Expires after three consecutive years of non-use and must be renewed
We Are IRS-Authorised to Authenticate Your Documents — No Originals Lost in the Mail
The biggest risk of a DIY ITIN application is mailing your original passport or national ID card to the IRS. If your documents are lost — which happens — replacing a foreign passport can take months and cost hundreds of dollars. The IRS does not accept notarised copies, so there is no workaround without an authorised agent.
As an IRS-authorised Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), Skyview Tax Resolution can review and authenticate your original identity documents in-person, then return them to you on the spot. We submit certified copies to the IRS. Your irreplaceable originals never leave your hands — and your application is prepared by professionals who know exactly what the IRS is looking for.
- ✓ Original documents authenticated by us — never mailed to the IRS
- ✓ Form W-7 completed and reviewed by our ITIN specialists before submission
- ✓ IRS W-7 rejection rate dramatically lower with CAA-prepared applications
- ✓ We track your application status and liaise with the IRS on your behalf
- ✓ Remote and virtual appointments available for applicants outside our office area
- ✓ Family applications handled together — spouses and dependents in one package
Is Your ITIN Expired? Renew Before You File — or Face Delays and Penalties
Many taxpayers don’t realise their ITIN has expired until they attempt to file their tax return and it’s rejected — or worse, their refund is delayed for months while the IRS processes a belated renewal. The IRS has strict expiration rules tied to usage patterns and original assignment date that catch many taxpayers off guard.
An expired ITIN used on a tax return will cause your return to be processed without certain credits — including the Child Tax Credit and the American Opportunity Credit — which could mean a significantly reduced refund or unexpected tax due. If you’re unsure whether your ITIN is still active, we will check it for free as part of your consultation.
- ✓ Free ITIN status check — we verify whether your number is still active
- ✓ Renewal uses the same Form W-7 process as a new application
- ✓ We can file renewal applications for your spouse and dependents simultaneously
- ✓ Renew before April 15 to avoid delays on your current-year return
- ✓ ITIN renewal does not require a new tax return in most cases
You May Need an ITIN If You Are…
The IRS issues ITINs to a wide range of individuals who have U.S. tax obligations but are not eligible for a Social Security Number. If any of the following situations describe you, our team can help you obtain your ITIN quickly and correctly.
Nonresident Alien Filing a U.S. Tax Return
If you earn U.S.-sourced income — from investments, rental property, or U.S. business activity — you are legally required to file a U.S. federal tax return even if you live outside the country. An ITIN is your tax identification number for this purpose.
Most CommonForeign National Living & Working in the U.S.
Non-U.S. citizens residing in the United States who have a tax filing obligation but are not eligible for an SSN — including certain visa holders, asylum seekers, and lawful permanent residents awaiting SSN eligibility — need an ITIN to file their returns.
Very CommonSpouse or Dependent of a U.S. Citizen or Resident
Foreign-born spouses and dependents of U.S. citizens or residents who do not qualify for an SSN need ITINs to be claimed on joint tax returns and to qualify for tax credits such as the Child Tax Credit and education credits.
Very CommonForeign Real Estate Investor
Foreign nationals who own U.S. real estate and receive rental income must file U.S. tax returns reporting that income. An ITIN is required to file Form 1040-NR and to comply with FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act) withholding requirements.
Growing NeedInternational Student or Scholar
F-1, M-1, and J-1 visa holders who receive stipends, fellowships, or other U.S.-sourced income that is not exempt from U.S. tax — and who are not eligible for an SSN — must obtain an ITIN to report and pay taxes on that income.
Student-SpecificITIN for Banking, Mortgages & Business
While the IRS issues ITINs solely for tax purposes, many U.S. financial institutions accept ITINs for opening bank accounts, applying for mortgages, and establishing business credit — particularly for foreign nationals and immigrants without SSNs.
Financial AccessEverything Your ITIN Allows You to Do in the United States
An ITIN is more than a tax filing tool. It opens doors to financial services, tax treaty benefits, and legal compliance that are otherwise inaccessible to non-SSN holders. Here is a comprehensive look at what having a valid ITIN makes possible.
File U.S. Federal Tax Returns Legally
File Form 1040 or 1040-NR and meet your U.S. tax obligations without an SSN. Avoid IRS penalties for failure to file that can accumulate at 5% per month on any tax owed.
Claim Tax Credits and Refunds
Certain tax credits — including the Child Tax Credit (for dependents with SSNs), education credits, and the Premium Tax Credit — are available to ITIN holders. A valid ITIN is required to claim them and receive any refund due.
Claim U.S. Tax Treaty Benefits
The United States has income tax treaties with over 65 countries. Foreign nationals can claim reduced withholding rates or exemptions under these treaties — but only if they have a valid ITIN or SSN to report the claim.
Open U.S. Bank Accounts
Many major U.S. banks — including Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo — accept ITINs in place of SSNs for opening personal checking and savings accounts, making it possible to participate in the U.S. banking system.
Apply for a U.S. Mortgage (ITIN Loans)
ITIN mortgage programs allow qualifying non-SSN holders to purchase U.S. real estate using their ITIN as their tax identification. These programs have helped thousands of immigrant families achieve homeownership in the United States.
Build U.S. Credit History
With an ITIN-linked bank account, you can begin building a U.S. credit profile through secured credit cards and ITIN-based credit products — establishing the credit history needed for loans, leases, and broader financial participation.
Comply with FIRPTA Withholding Rules
Foreign investors selling U.S. real estate are subject to 15% FIRPTA withholding on the gross sale price. An ITIN is required to file for a withholding certificate, potentially reducing or eliminating this withholding before the transaction closes.
Establish Business Tax Compliance
Foreign-owned U.S. businesses, sole proprietors, and partners in U.S. partnerships need ITINs for all applicable individual owners to meet federal and state tax filing requirements and avoid penalties for non-compliance.
The 13 IRS-Accepted Identity Documents for ITIN Applications
The IRS accepts exactly 13 types of identity documents for ITIN applications. Each document must be current, unexpired, and show your name and photograph (with limited exceptions). Documents must also establish both your identity and your foreign status. As your Certifying Acceptance Agent, we review and authenticate these documents on your behalf — so your originals stay with you.
| Document Type | Proves Identity | Proves Foreign Status | For Dependents | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passport (any country) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Preferred — stands alone |
| National Identity Card | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Must show photo, name, address, DOB & expiry |
| U.S. Driver’s License | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | — | Must be paired with foreign status document |
| Civil Birth Certificate | ✓ Yes | Partial | ✓ Required under 18 | Required for dependents under 18 years old |
| Foreign Driver’s License | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | — | Must be current with photo |
| U.S. State ID Card | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | — | Must be paired with foreign status document |
| USCIS Photo Identification | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Limited | Includes Employment Authorisation Card |
| U.S. Military ID | ✓ Yes | ✗ No | — | For U.S. military personnel |
| Foreign Military ID | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✗ No for dependents | Must mail original — CAA cannot certify |
| Visa issued by U.S. Dept. of State | Partial | ✓ Yes | — | Must be combined with identity document |
| Medical Records (dependents only) | ✓ Yes | Partial | ✓ Under 6 years | Must be mailed — cannot be CAA-certified |
| School Records (dependents only) | ✓ Yes | Partial | ✓ Under 18 years | Must be mailed — cannot be CAA-certified |
| U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Documents | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Limited | Includes Form I-94, I-20, DS-2019 |
A passport alone is the only document that satisfies both identity and foreign status requirements by itself. All other documents must be combined. Our team will advise you on the exact combination required for your specific situation.
Our Simple 5-Step ITIN Application Process
We handle the complexity so you don’t have to. From your first call to the day your ITIN arrives, here is exactly what happens when you work with Skyview Tax Resolution’s ITIN services team.
Free Initial Consultation
We begin with a free consultation to understand your situation — why you need an ITIN, which documents you have available, and whether you need a new application or a renewal. We confirm your eligibility, explain the process in plain language, and tell you exactly what to bring to your appointment or upload for a remote engagement.
Document Review & Authentication
You meet with our CAA specialist — in person or virtually — to present your identity documents. We review each document against IRS requirements, authenticate them on the spot, and certify copies to submit with your application. Your originals are returned to you immediately. No mailing passports to the IRS. No weeks of waiting to get them back.
Form W-7 Preparation & Review
We complete Form W-7 on your behalf, selecting the correct reason code for your application, accurately entering all biographical and tax information, and attaching any required tax returns or exception documentation. Every line is reviewed for accuracy before submission — the most common source of IRS rejections is incorrect or incomplete W-7 data.
IRS Submission
We submit your complete ITIN application package directly to the IRS ITIN Operations unit in Austin, Texas — or through the CAA expedited submission channel where available. Your application is submitted with our CAA certification, which signals to the IRS that documents have been properly reviewed and authenticated, reducing the likelihood of rejection or requests for additional information.
Status Tracking & ITIN Delivery
Standard IRS processing takes 7 weeks — up to 11 weeks during peak tax season (January 15 to April 30) or for applications submitted from outside the United States. We track your application status and follow up with the IRS if processing exceeds normal timelines. When your ITIN is assigned, the IRS mails it to the address on your W-7 — we ensure you know exactly what to expect and when.
Ongoing Tax Filing Support
Once your ITIN is in hand, many clients need help filing their tax returns — which is often the very reason they applied. Our team provides comprehensive tax preparation services for ITIN holders, including nonresident alien returns (1040-NR), treaty benefit claims, rental income reporting, and first-time U.S. tax filings for recently arrived immigrants and foreign nationals.
Simple, Transparent ITIN Service Pricing
We believe in clear, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Choose the service level that fits your situation. All plans include CAA document authentication — your original documents are never mailed to the IRS.
ITIN Renewal
For taxpayers renewing an expired ITIN
per applicant · one-time fee
- ✓ Free ITIN expiry status check
- ✓ Form W-7 renewal preparation
- ✓ CAA document authentication
- ✓ IRS submission & tracking
- ✓ Originals returned same day
New ITIN Application
First-time ITIN for individuals
per applicant · includes tax return
- ✓ Full eligibility assessment
- ✓ Form W-7 & tax return prep
- ✓ CAA document authentication
- ✓ IRS submission & follow-up
- ✓ Reason code selection & review
- ✓ Originals returned immediately
Family Package
Applicant + spouse + dependents
up to 4 applicants · best value
- ✓ Primary applicant + up to 3 dependents
- ✓ All W-7 forms prepared & reviewed
- ✓ All documents authenticated together
- ✓ Single family submission package
- ✓ Joint tax return preparation included
- ✓ Ongoing compliance guidance
Prices shown are for ITIN service preparation only and do not include the IRS application fee (currently $0 — ITIN applications are free to submit). Remote/virtual appointments available at no extra charge. Custom quotes available for businesses with multiple foreign national employees or partners.
Is Your ITIN Still Valid?
Use our quick checker to get an instant assessment of your ITIN’s likely validity status based on your assignment year and recent usage. This is a guide only — contact us for a definitive free status check.
ITIN Status Checker
Answer two quick questions to assess whether your ITIN may have expired.
“I was so stressed about applying for an ITIN — I didn’t want to mail my passport overseas. Skyview handled everything. They checked my documents in the office, kept my originals, and submitted everything directly to the IRS. My ITIN arrived in 8 weeks and I was finally able to file my tax return and claim my refund. Truly professional and kind throughout.”— Ana M., Verified Client · New ITIN Application
ITIN Services FAQ
Everything you need to know about ITIN applications, renewals, and what your number allows you to do in the United States.
Get Your ITIN the Right Way — With an IRS-Authorised Expert
Don’t risk your passport in the mail or face an IRS rejection due to a form error. Our Certifying Acceptance Agent team handles your entire ITIN application — new or renewal — accurately, quickly, and with your original documents returned to you on the spot.
📞 321-258-7299Free Consultation · In-Person & Virtual Appointments · All 50 States · International Applicants Welcome
Skyview Tax Resolution is an IRS-authorised Certifying Acceptance Agent. ITIN processing times are determined by the IRS and are subject to change. Pricing shown is for ITIN preparation services only. Individual results may vary. An ITIN does not authorise employment, confer immigration status, or provide eligibility for Social Security benefits. Skyview Tax Resolution is not a law firm.