How to Apply for a Taxpayer ID Number
Everyone who files Federal Taxes must have a Taxpayer ID Number known to the IRS as the Taxpayer Identification Number or TIN. The Taxpayer ID Number can be a Social Security Number or it can be an Individual Taxpayer ID Number. It depends on your status as a resident, non-resident or alien. If it is a Social Security Number that is needed then you would apply to the Social Security Administration. Otherwise you would apply to the Internal Revenue Service for an ITIN, Individual Taxpayer ID Number.
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Things You'll Need
- Social Security Administration Form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card
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- IRS Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
Instructions
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Do I Need a TIN or a SSAN?
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First you need to determine if you need a Taxpayer ID Number or a Social Security Account Number. It you are a U.S. resident or a legal alien, then you should apply for a Social Security Account Number. If you are not a U.S. resident or legal alien then you would need a Taxpayer ID Number.
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To apply for a Social Security Account Number you need to complete an application form SS-5, Application for a Social Security Card. This form is available at a local Social Security office or can be downloaded from their website listed below. After completing the form take it to your nearest Social Security Office along with your birth certificate or U.S. Passport, if your birth certificate is not easily available, for proof of age and citizenship.
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To apply for a Taxpayer ID Number you must complete IRS Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. This form is available at your local IRS office or can be downloaded from the IRS website. Send the complete form along with the supporting documents required as outlined on the application instructions to:
Internal Revenue Service
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
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Tips & Warnings
There is a lot of information available on the websites or the Social Security Administration and the IRS. You can download the forms required including the instructions. On the IRS website you can complete the form on-line and then print it. It will not let you save the completed form, you can only print it. In both cases you can also go to the local office and get the need forms and instructions. In the case of the Social Security card, you must apply in person. For the IRS ITIN you can apply by mail.
You should be sure that you have included the proper supporting documents otherwise this will delay your application. Even though a U.S. Passport is proof of birthplace and citizenship, a second document is required.
