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An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a special nine-digit number that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) gives to people who cannot get a Social Security number (SSN). This includes foreign nationals and undocumented immigrants. The ITIN helps these people pay their federal taxes. However, having an ITIN does not give a person immigration status or let them work in the U.S. An ITIN can also be used to open a bank account or get a mortgage. To get an ITIN, a person must fill out a form and show proof of identity and residency. The ITIN will expire if the person does not file taxes for three years, but it can be renewed.
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a unique nine-digit number assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who are not eligible to obtain a Social Security number (SSN). This includes foreign nationals and undocumented immigrants who need to pay federal taxes. However, an ITIN does not provide a person with immigration status, work authorization, or eligibility for social security benefits.
For example, if a nonresident alien is required to file a U.S. tax return, they can apply for an ITIN to fulfill their tax obligations.
To apply for an ITIN, a person must meet three requirements:
To apply for an ITIN, a person must fill out and submit a Form W-7 along with their federal income tax return, proof of identity, foreign nationality status, and residency. They can apply by mail, in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or with the help of an Acceptance Agent or Certified Acceptance Agent authorized by the IRS.
An ITIN will expire if its holder does not file a tax return for three consecutive years. However, it can be renewed by submitting a renewal application to the IRS.
Overall, an ITIN is a way for individuals who are not eligible for an SSN to fulfill their federal tax obligations.
individual retirement account (IRA) | individualized education program