Purpose of a ITIN
ITIN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is a nine digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service for tax processing in the United States. ITIN is issued to non- resident and resident aliens who are required to file federal tax returns and those who are not eligible for a social security number or Employer Identification Number. ITIN is issued for federal tax purposes only and will not serve as an identification proof or work permit in the US. The US Federal government strictly prohibits the usage of ITIN for any purposes other than taxation.
To apply for an ITIN you need valid documents stipulated by the IRS as proof of identity and address. You will have to include the original document or certified/notarized copies while submitting your application unless you meet one of the exceptions. You have to complete the form W-7, attach a valid federal tax return and send them to the IRS. You may also use the services of an IRS authorized Acceptance Agent to apply for ITIN. You will receive a letter from the IRS assigning you your ITIN usually 6 weeks after the application is submitted. If you do not receive the ITIN letter within 6 weeks you can call the IRS and check the status of your application. Issue of ITIN is a onetime activity, the ITIN holder should use the same ITIN issued for future taxation filing.
The process and formalities involved in applying for an ITIN can be complicated and cumbersome for anyone. The ideal thing to do is to approach a professional who has good knowledge about the procedures and formalities involved in applying to the IRS. The IRS authorizes companies and individuals as Certifying Acceptance Agents to act on behalf of individuals who need an ITIN. The Acceptance Agents can directly apply to the IRS on your behalf by completing all the documentation and forwarding the completed application to the IRS. They can also keep a track of the status of your application and take any corrective actions if necessary. Contact www.ustaxrecovery.com to receive additional information about an obtaining an ITIN.
