What is an ITIN and should I get one? How do I get an ITIN?
An Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) is for people who are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN). Often they are not eligible for an SSN because of their immigration status.
Getting an ITIN allows you to file a tax return and in some cases receive certain tax credits for you and your family. To apply for an ITIN, you must have earned income in the United States and report that income on a federal tax return.
As of April 7th, 2025, the IRS and the Department of Homeland Security (including ICE) have reached an agreement to share data between the agencies and more than 47,000 tax records were shared between the IRS and DHS. The agreement is currently on hold but any data you have submitted in the past to the IRS could potentially be shared through this agreement.
We have no reason to believe your choice of tax prep software would have any impact on whether the IRS will share your data.
If you are considering filing with an ITIN, we recommend that you consult with an attorney or immigration support service.
An ITIN allows you to report income, pay taxes, and receive a tax refund, and can be used to apply for other financial products, like a bank account. An ITIN does not:
- Qualify you for most benefits, such as Social Security
- Change your immigration status
- Approve you to legally work in the U.S.
- Act as a form of identification outside the federal tax system
- Qualify you for most benefits, such as Social Security
- Change your immigration status
- Approve you to legally work in the U.S.
- Act as a form of identification outside the federal tax system
Some states, including California and Colorado, offer tax benefits to ITIN holders and mixed-status families. Benefits range from under $1,000 to more than $3,600. You may also be eligible for refunds for overpaid estimated taxes.
To get an ITIN, you need to file Form W-7 along with your federal tax return.
Part of the application asks for a proof of identity. They usually ask for original copies of your passport and birth certificate. An IRS Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) will review and approve your documents for the IRS. Some of these CAAs provide free services. It can be helpful to apply in person to avoid mailing in your original documents.
GetYourRefund does not currently offer support for getting an ITIN. Please use our VITA Location Finder to find an in-person site near you. Remember that not all in-person sites can help with applying and renewing an ITIN and we recommend contacting the VITA office to confirm.