If you earn money in the United States but you don't have or qualify for a Social Security Number, you can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in order to file your tax return. You need the IRS Form W-7 and a tax return to apply for an ITIN.
Who needs an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)?
Anyone who earns money in the United States and must pay taxes, but does not have a Social Security Number or does not qualify for one.
Dependents who live in Mexico or Canada, to whom you send more than 50% of the money that they need to live ( if you want to claim them as dependents on your federal tax return.)
Why do you need an ITIN?
It serves as your identification number for filing your federal taxes.
It allows you to get a refund from your income withheld by the IRS, if you qualify.
It allows you to file your taxes and claim dependents you support in Mexico or Canada, to whom you send more than 50% of the money they need to live.
What do you need to apply for an ITIN?
You need the IRS Form W-7 and a tax return to apply for an ITIN. We can help you apply for an ITIN (IRS Form W-7) while we prepare your taxes.1
H&R Block helps you process your ITIN application while preparing your taxes in one visit. Click here for the list of documents you will need.
Additional Benefits
Applying for an ITIN is free, when you prepare your tax return with us.
With an ITIN you may be able to open a bank account or apply for a mortgage loan.
1H&R Block does not provide immigration services and having an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) does not change your immigration status in the U.S. The ITIN is an identification number issued by the U.S. government for tax reporting only. You are required to meet government requirements to receive an ITIN. At participating H&R Block offices. Additional fees and restrictions may apply.