Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
The Internal Revenue Service issues an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN), which is a tax processing number, for resident and nonresident aliens, their spouses and their dependents if they are not eligible for a Social Security number. The ITIN is a nine digit number beginning with the number 9 and is formatted like a Social Security number.
ITINs are used for tax purposes only, and are not intended to serve any other purpose. Only individuals who have a valid tax filing requirement or are filing a U.S. federal income tax return to claim a refund are eligible to receive an ITIN. Your ITIN (1) does not authorize you to work in the U.S. or to receive Social Security benefits, (2) is not valid for identification outside the tax system, and (3) does not change your immigration status.
Certifying Acceptance Agent
A Certifying Acceptance Agent is a person or business who is able to help individuals who do not qualify for a Social Security number obtain an ITIN so they may still file the Form 1040 and other tax schedules.
