What is the difference between a social security number and an ITIN?

At its most basic level, a SSN is for U.S. citizens and authorized noncitizen residents. … Only noncitizens authorized to workin the US are eligible for SSNs. An ITIN is for residents with foreign status. This includes undocumented aliens and nonresident aliens that conduct business in the United States.

How do I find my ITIN number?

ITIN. An ITIN, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, is a tax processing number only available for certain nonresident and resident aliens, their spouses, and dependents who cannot get a Social Security Number (SSN). It is a 9-digit number, beginning with the number “9”, formatted like an SSN (NNN-NN-NNNN).

What is an ITIN number used for?

What is an ITIN used for? IRS issues ITINs to help individuals comply with the U.S. tax laws, and to provide a means to efficiently process and account for tax returns and payments for those not eligible for Social Security numbers.

Do I need an ITIN if I have a social security number?

No one should have both an ITIN and an SSN. For example, if an SSN application is pending, an ITIN will not be issued even if the individual completes and submits a Form W-7.

Is ITIN the same as Ein?

The main difference between an EIN and an ITIN is that an EIN is used to identify a business, while an ITIN is used by people who must file a tax return, but are not eligible to work in the United States.

What does an ITIN number look like?

The ITIN is a nine-digit number that always begins with the number 9 and has a range of numbers from 50 to 65, 70 to 88, 90 to 92, and 94 to 99 for the fourth and fifth digits. The ITIN is formatted like a SSN: 9XX-7X-XXXX. Many immigrants have ITINs.

How do illegal immigrants get an ITIN number?

To obtain an ITIN you’ll need to file the appropriate paperwork. Complete a W-7 application. Submit it to the IRS along with a completed tax return. Once the application has been approved, you’ll be mailed an ITIN.

Can I get a tax refund with an ITIN number?

Unlike other forms of ID, ITINs only have one purpose—tax filing and reporting. Having an ITIN number won’t make you eligible for benefits, such as Social Security or earned income credits that provide refunds to some low-income filers.

How much does it cost to get an ITIN number?

To get your ITIN, you must complete Form W-7 with the IRS. The cost to apply for your ITIN number is free.

Can a tourist get an ITIN?

An ITIN is required when a foreign visitor is being paid for services and is not eligible to apply for a Social Security Number because of his/her visa status (such as B1/B2 or WB/WT). … To apply for an ITIN, the visitor should complete a Form W-7 (Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number).

How do I get an ITIN for my child?

If the child isn’t a U.S. citizen or resident, and if the child qualifies as a dependent, a TIN is still required. To obtain an ITIN, use Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. For more information, refer to Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Can a person with an ITIN work in the US?

ITINs do not authorize a person to work in the U.S. or provide eligibility for Social Security benefits. Tax returns filed with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number reporting wages paid are required to show the Social Security Number under which the wages were earned.

How can I get an ITIN number for my wife?

You must complete Form SS-5. You must also provide original or certified copies of documents to verify your spouse’s age, identity, and citizenship. If your spouse is not eligible to get an SSN, they can file Form W-7 with the IRS to apply for an ITIN.

Can I have both ITIN and SSN?

By law, you cannot have both an SSN and ITIN. In order to meet SSN eligibility requirements, you need to either be an American citizen or a noncitizen who has permission from the Department of Homeland Security to work in America.