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The IRS W-7 form plays a crucial role for individuals who may not qualify for a Social Security number but still need to comply with U.S. tax laws. This form is primarily used to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which serves as a tax processing number for these individuals. Typically, the W-7 is essential for non-resident aliens who have filing or reporting requirements under U.S. tax law. Additionally, foreign nationals who are dependents or spouses of U.S. citizens or resident aliens can also use this form. The application requires specific documentation to establish both identity and foreign status, which includes items like passports or national identification cards. Understanding the application process and requirements associated with the W-7 form is vital for individuals seeking to fulfill their tax obligations, ensuring compliance and preventing potential legal complications related to taxes.

IRS W-7 Example

Spouse of U.S. citizen/resident alien

Form W-7

(Rev. August 2019)

Department of the Treasury

Internal Revenue Service

Application for IRS Individual

Taxpayer Identification Number

For use by individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

See separate instructions.

OMB No. 1545-0074

An IRS individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) is for U.S. federal tax purposes only.

Before you begin:

Don’t submit this form if you have, or are eligible to get, a U.S. social security number (SSN).

Application type (check one box):

Apply for a new ITIN Renew an existing ITIN

Reason you’re submitting Form W-7. Read the instructions for the box you check. Caution: If you check box b, c, d, e, f, or g, you must file a U.S. federal tax return with Form W-7 unless you meet one of the exceptions (see instructions).

a b c d

e

Nonresident alien required to get an ITIN to claim tax treaty benefit

Nonresident alien filing a U.S. federal tax return

U.S. resident alien (based on days present in the United States) filing a U.S. federal tax return

Dependent of U.S. citizen/resident alien }If d, enter relationship to U.S. citizen/resident alien (see instructions)

If d or e, enter name and SSN/ITIN of U.S. citizen/resident alien (see instructions)

f

Nonresident alien student, professor, or researcher filing a U.S. federal tax return or claiming an exception

g

Dependent/spouse of a nonresident alien holding a U.S. visa

h

Other (see instructions)

Additional information for a and f: Enter treaty country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and treaty article number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name

1a First name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Middle name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(see instructions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name at birth if

1b First name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Middle name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

different . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Applicant’s

2 Street address, apartment number, or rural route number. If you have a P.O. box, see separate instructions.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mailing

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City or town, state or province, and country. Include ZIP code or postal code where appropriate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign (non-

3 Street address, apartment number, or rural route number. Don’t use a P.O. box number.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S.) Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(see instructions)

 

City or town, state or province, and country. Include postal code where appropriate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Birth

4 Date of birth (month / day / year)

Country of birth

 

 

City and state or province (optional)

5

 

 

Male

Information

 

/

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Female

Other

6a Country(ies) of citizenship

 

6b Foreign tax I.D. number (if

any)

6c Type of U.S. visa (if any), number, and expiration date

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Information

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6d Identification document(s) submitted (see instructions)

 

 

 

 

Passport

 

 

Driver’s license/State I.D.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USCIS documentation

 

 

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date of entry into

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

the United States

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Issued by:

 

No.:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exp. date:

/

/

 

 

 

 

 

(MM/DD/YYYY):

/ /

 

 

 

 

 

6e Have you previously received an ITIN or an Internal Revenue Service Number (IRSN)?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

No/Don’t know. Skip line 6f.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes. Complete line 6f. If more than one, list on a sheet and attach to this form (see instructions).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6f Enter ITIN and/or IRSN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IRSN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ITIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and

 

 

name under which it was issued

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

First name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Middle name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Last name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6g Name of college/university or company (see instructions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City and state

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Length of stay

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sign

Under penalties of perjury, I (applicant/delegate/acceptance agent) declare that I have examined this application, including accompanying

documentation and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. I authorize the IRS to share

Here

information with my acceptance agent in order to perfect this Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

 

Keep a copy for

FF

 

Signature of applicant (if delegate, see instructions)

 

 

Date (month / day / year)

F

 

Phone number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

your records.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/

 

/

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name of delegate, if applicable (type or print)

 

 

Delegate’s relationship

 

 

 

 

Parent

 

 

Court-appointed guardian

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

to applicant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Power of attorney

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acceptance

F

 

Signature

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date (month / day / year)

 

 

Phone

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/

 

/

 

 

 

 

 

Fax

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Agent’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

F

 

Name and title (type or print)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name of company

 

 

 

 

EIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PTIN

Use ONLY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Office code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see separate instructions.

Cat. No. 10229L

Form W-7 (Rev. 8-2019)

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The W-7 form is used to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security number.
Eligibility Individuals who need an ITIN may include foreign nationals, non-resident aliens, and certain dependents or spouses of U.S. citizens or residents.
Submission The W-7 must be submitted to the IRS along with a completed tax return or when applying for an ITIN only based on specific circumstances.
Supporting Documents Applicants must provide original documents or certified copies that prove their foreign status and identity, typically including a passport.
Renewal ITINs need to be renewed if they have not been used on a tax return for the last three consecutive years.
Processing Time The IRS typically processes W-7 forms within 7 weeks, but it may take longer during peak tax season or if additional information is required.
Tax Filing Requirement Individuals must file a federal income tax return to use the ITIN and comply with IRS regulations regarding payments and credits.

Guide to Using IRS W-7

After you have gathered the necessary information and documents, it's time to fill out the IRS W-7 form. This form is crucial for those who need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Follow these steps carefully to ensure accuracy.

  1. Obtain the IRS W-7 Form: Download the form from the IRS website or request a physical copy from your local IRS office.
  2. Fill in Personal Information: Enter your name, mailing address, and date of birth. Make sure your name matches the documents you will provide.
  3. Choose Reason for ITIN: Select the appropriate reason for needing an ITIN from the options listed on the form. This is a critical step to ensure your application is processed correctly.
  4. Provide Supporting Documentation: Gather original documents or certified copies that support your application. Attach these documents to your W-7 form.
  5. Sign the Form: At the end of the form, sign and date where indicated. This confirms that the information you provided is accurate.
  6. Submit Your Application: Send the completed W-7 form, along with the supporting documents, to the address specified by the IRS. Be sure to check the mailing instructions for your specific situation.

Double-check everything before sending it off. Ensuring that each section is completed correctly will help expedite the process and avoid delays in receiving your ITIN.

Get Answers on IRS W-7

What is the IRS W-7 form?

The IRS W-7 form is used to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This number is primarily for individuals who need a U.S. taxpayer identification but are not eligible for a Social Security number. The ITIN allows these individuals to comply with U.S. tax laws and to file their tax returns.

Who needs to file a W-7 form?

Individuals who fall into certain categories typically need to file a W-7. These include:

  • Non-resident aliens who are required to file a U.S. tax return.
  • Foreign nationals who are claimed as dependents on a U.S. tax return.
  • Individuals who are submitting forms or documentation to the IRS that require an ITIN.
  • Foreign students or scholars who must file tax returns.

How do I fill out the W-7 form?

Filling out the W-7 form involves several steps:

  1. Obtain the W-7 form, which is available on the IRS website.
  2. Provide your personal information, including your name, birth date, and address.
  3. Select the reason you are applying for an ITIN.
  4. Submit proof of identity and foreign status. This can include passports or national identification cards.
  5. Sign and date the form before submitting it to the IRS.

What documents do I need to submit with my W-7 form?

When applying for an ITIN, it is important to submit specific documents. These typically include:

  • A completed W-7 form.
  • Proof of identity and foreign status. Acceptable documents may include passports, national ID cards, or birth certificates.
  • Any additional attachments required for your situation, such as a federal tax return if applicable.

How long does it take to receive my ITIN after filing the W-7?

The processing time for a W-7 application generally takes about 7 weeks. This timeframe can vary based on the time of year and the volume of applications the IRS is handling. For those applying during tax season, longer wait times are possible. It's advisable to keep track of your application status by contacting the IRS if you have not heard back within this period.

Can I e-file my W-7 form?

No, the W-7 form cannot be e-filed. You must submit it by mail along with the required documents. The IRS requires that the original documents or certified copies be sent, and they generally do not accept photocopies. Be sure to send your application to the correct address specified in the W-7 instructions to avoid delays.

Common mistakes

Filling out the IRS W-7 form can seem straightforward, yet many individuals encounter obstacles that lead to errors. One prevalent mistake is failing to provide the necessary supporting documents. The W-7 form requires proof of identity and foreign status. Acceptable documents include a passport or national identification card. Without these documents, the IRS will reject your application, resulting in delays.

An equally common error is mismatched information. Applicants often input names, addresses, or dates of birth that do not align with their identification documents. When discrepancies occur, the IRS may not process the application, causing frustration and further complications. It is crucial to double-check all entries against the original documents.

Another mistake involves overlooking the purpose for which the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is needed. The IRS requires you to specify why you are applying. Forgetting to include this information can lead to the application being denied. Providing a clear explanation helps the IRS understand your situation better.

Additionally, some individuals neglect to sign and date the form. This step, though seemingly minor, is essential. Applications that lack a signature will automatically be considered incomplete. Remember to review the entire form before submission to ensure all required sections are filled out correctly.

Finally, a common issue is failing to submit the form to the correct address. The IRS has designated various processing centers for W-7 applications, depending on where the applicant resides. Sending the form to the wrong address will lead to delays in processing time and could even result in the application being lost. Always verify the submission address to ensure timely handling.

Documents used along the form

The IRS W-7 form is essential for individuals who need to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This form is typically required by non-U.S. residents who do not qualify for a Social Security Number. When submitting the W-7 form, there are several other documents you may need to include to complete your application successfully. Here is a list of common forms and documents that accompany the W-7:

  • Proof of Identity: A valid form of identification that includes your photo, like a passport or a driver's license, is necessary. This document helps verify your identity.
  • Proof of Foreign Status: Items such as a passport or a national identity card can confirm that you are a non-resident alien. Generally, this document should show your nationality.
  • Federal Tax Return: If applicable, you might be required to submit a U.S. tax return. This form shows your income and tax obligations and can support your need for an ITIN.
  • Supporting Tax Documents: Additional forms like W-2s, 1099s, or other relevant income documentation may be needed to provide context for your federal tax return.
  • Application for IRS ITIN (Form W-7): While it may seem redundant, always ensure that the W-7 form itself is correctly filled out and included in your application packet.
  • Form 8821: This form designates a person to represent you before the IRS. It isn't always required but could streamline communication regarding your ITIN application.
  • Form 2848: If you want someone to represent you, this power of attorney form grants them the ability to deal with your IRS matters related to the ITIN application.
  • Certificate of Accuracy: In certain cases, you may want to include a declaration that verifies the authenticity of your documents along with your W-7 application.
  • Identification Verification Certification: Some applicants may need this form completed by a Certifying Acceptance Agent to verify their identity and foreign status.
  • Other Documentation: Depending on your situation, supplemental documents like marriage certificates or birth certificates may also be necessary to establish your identity and status.

When submitting the W-7 form, it’s essential to gather and prepare the required documents carefully. Each document plays a crucial role in supporting your application for an ITIN, aiding in a smoother process. Ensure that all forms are completed accurately and reach the IRS in a timely manner to avoid delays.

Similar forms

The IRS W-7 form is an important document used for applying for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for those who do not qualify for a Social Security Number. Several other forms serve a similar purpose or relate closely to the W-7 in terms of identification and tax requirements. The following list outlines seven such documents and highlights their similarities with the W-7 form:

  • Form SS-5: This form is used to apply for a Social Security Number. Both the SS-5 and W-7 forms require personal information and serve as means to identify individuals for tax or benefits purposes.
  • Form 1040-NR: Designed for non-resident aliens to file a tax return, it often accompanies the W-7 when an individual with an ITIN files taxes. Both forms address tax obligations for individuals without U.S. citizenship.
  • Form 8853: This form is used for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and may be filed by individuals who need to report contributions or distributions. Like the W-7, it requires personal identification and tax-related information.
  • Form 8862: This document is for those who wish to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) after it was previously denied. Both forms are used to establish tax eligibility and identity for specific credits.
  • Form 14800: Also known as the Application for a U.S. Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, it closely mirrors the W-7 in providing a process for those needing an ITIN.
  • Form 8833: This form is used to disclose treaties between the U.S. and other countries that affect tax obligations. Similar to the W-7, it addresses situations where U.S. taxation may be affected by residency or citizenship status.
  • Form 1099: Used to report various types of income, this form may require an ITIN for non-resident individuals. It shares a connection with the W-7 as they both pertain to income reporting requirements for those without a Social Security Number.

Each of these forms plays a crucial role in the tax identification process and emphasizes the importance of providing accurate personal information to the IRS, ensuring compliance with tax laws.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the IRS W-7 form, it is crucial to follow certain guidelines to ensure that the process goes smoothly. Here is a list of things you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do: Ensure that all personal information is accurate and up to date.
  • Do: Provide all required documentation to support your application.
  • Do: Use the proper form version according to the IRS guidelines.
  • Do: Sign and date the form before submission.
  • Don’t: Leave any sections of the form blank; complete all required fields.
  • Don’t: Submit the form without verifying all information carefully.

These dos and don’ts will help in submitting a complete and accurate W-7 form, thereby increasing the chances of swift processing by the IRS.

Misconceptions

The IRS W-7 form is an important document for individuals who need to obtain an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). However, several misconceptions surround its purpose and usage. Below is a list of 6 common misconceptions explained in detail.

  • Myth: The W-7 form can only be used by non-resident aliens. In reality, both resident aliens and non-resident aliens can use the W-7 form to apply for an ITIN, provided they do not qualify for a Social Security Number.
  • Myth: You must file tax returns to obtain an ITIN. While the primary purpose of the ITIN is for tax reporting, it is not a strict requirement to file a tax return in the same year that you apply for the ITIN. Many applicants simply need an ITIN for other financial transactions.
  • Myth: Once you have an ITIN, it lasts forever. This is not entirely true. ITINs can expire if not used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years. It is essential to stay updated on the status and use of your ITIN.
  • Myth: Only individuals can apply for an ITIN using Form W-7. Businesses and entities that are required to file taxes in the U.S. may also need an ITIN and can use the W-7 form to apply for one.
  • Myth: You do not need documentation to apply for an ITIN. In fact, submitting Form W-7 requires supporting documents that prove the individual's identity and foreign status. Acceptable forms of identification must be included with the application.
  • Myth: ITINs are only for tax purposes. While ITINs are primarily used for tax filing, they can also help individuals open bank accounts, apply for loans, and meet other financial and legal obligations in the U.S.

Understanding the correct information about the W-7 form can help individuals navigate the tax landscape more effectively. It is crucial to approach this process with accurate knowledge to avoid any complications.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the IRS W-7 form, it's important to keep in mind several key points to ensure the process is smooth and effective.

  • Understand the Purpose: The W-7 form is used to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This number is essential for non-residents who need to file a U.S. tax return.
  • Complete All Required Information: Ensure that each section of the form is filled out accurately. Missing or incorrect information can delay processing or result in the rejection of your application.
  • Provide Valid Supporting Documentation: You must submit documentation that proves your foreign status and identity. Common documents include passports, national identification cards, and birth certificates.
  • Check the Submission Guidelines: The completed W-7 form should be sent with the appropriate tax return unless you're eligible to submit the W-7 on its own. Be aware of the submission deadlines.
  • Follow Up on Your Application: After submitting your W-7 form, it's wise to check the status periodically. You can do this by contacting the IRS directly for updates.

Being thorough and organized can significantly ease the process of obtaining your ITIN through the W-7 form.