IRS

Form W-7

Rev. 12/2024

Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number

Used to apply for or renew an ITIN for individuals not eligible for an SSN.

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Plain English

Form W-7 is how non-citizens who aren't eligible for a Social Security Number apply for an ITIN — a tax processing number issued by the IRS. You need an ITIN if you have a U.S. tax filing requirement but cannot get an SSN.

Quick Facts

Who: Nonresident and resident aliens who need a U.S. tax ID number but are not eligible for a Social Security Number.
What: Application for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) — a 9-digit tax processing number for individuals who must file U.S. taxes but cannot get an SSN.
When: Before filing a tax return that requires an ITIN. Can be filed anytime with a valid federal tax return.
Where: Mail to IRS ITIN Operation with original identity documents (or certified copies from a Certifying Acceptance Agent).
Why: ITIN is required to file U.S. tax returns, claim tax treaty benefits, and meet IRS filing requirements if you have U.S. income but no SSN.
How: Complete the form with personal info, country of birth/citizenship, visa info, foreign tax ID. Submit original identity documents (passport preferred) or use an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent.

Common Risks & Mistakes

  • •Submitting photocopies instead of originals or certified copies — originals are required unless using an Acceptance Agent
  • •Incorrect identity documents — passport is preferred; other documents may be rejected
  • •Applying when you qualify for an SSN — if eligible for SSN, you cannot get an ITIN
  • •Renewal not filed before ITIN expiration — expired ITIN may cause tax return rejection
  • •Not using for tax filing within 3 years — unused ITINs expire

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Field-by-Field Guide

Reason
Reason for ApplyingREQUIREDcheckbox

Check all boxes that apply: nonresident alien, U.S. resident alien, dependent of U.S. citizen, spouse of U.S. citizen, etc.

Personal Info
Name (legal)REQUIREDtext

First, middle, last name exactly as it appears on the identity document submitted.

Date of BirthREQUIREDdate

MM/DD/YYYY

Country of Birth & CitizenshipREQUIREDtext

Country where you were born and current citizenship.

Type of U.S. Visatext

Visa type and number if applicable (e.g., F-1, B-2).

Foreign Tax Identifying Numbertext

Tax ID from your home country if applicable.

Documents
Identity DocumentREQUIREDtext

Passport (preferred), national ID, or other acceptable document. Must be current, contain name, photo, and address.

Sign
SignatureREQUIREDsignature

Sign and date. If applicant is under 18, parent or guardian must sign.

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Form Stats

8
Fields
6
Required
4
Sections

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Disclaimer: We do not provide legal advice. We translate legal language into plain English and help you prepare for a conversation with a lawyer.