An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a 9-digit number the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issues if you need a U.S. taxpayer identification number for federal tax purposes, but you aren’t eligible for a Social Security number (SSN).
Why is an ITIN issued?
An ITIN is issued by the IRS for federal tax purposes only.
What will an ITIN not provide?
An ITIN will not:
- Qualify you for Social Security benefits or the Earned Income Tax Credit
- Provide or change immigration status
- Authorize you to work legally in the U.S.
- Serve as identification outside the federal tax system
Application Process
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Read on to learn what documents you need to apply.
Form W-7
This is the IRS form used to request an ITIN.
Form Link - https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw7.pdf
Instructions Link - https://www.irs.gov/instructions/iw7
Passport
You can submit an original valid passport or a certified copy. To learn more about the term certified copy you can refer to this webpage - https://www.irs.gov/tin/itin/itin-supporting-documents#certified
A passport proves identity and foreign status.
A passport is the only stand-alone document.If you submit an original valid passport or certified copy, you don’t need to submit any other supporting documents.
Step 2 - Apply
Once you have completed you W-7, you can submit your application package (W-7 and passport).
Submit via mail:
U.S. Postal Service
Internal Revenue Service
Austin Service Center
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
Apply in person:
You can get most supporting documents authenticated and returned immediately. You can learn more about these processes on the IRS webpage - https://www.irs.gov/tin/itin/how-to-apply-for-an-itin
Apply in person with:
- IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center with ITIN services
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) site with ITIN services
- Certifying Acceptance Agent or Acceptance Agent
Need help?
Contact the Parkersburg, WV taxpayer assistance center! You can call them to make an appointment. They will help you complete the W-7 application as well as certify your passport before submitting your application.
Parkersburg is approximately 29.2 miles from Ohio University.
Address:
700 Market StreetParkersburg, WV 26101
Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:30am - 4:30pm
(Closed for lunch 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)
** Extended hours Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. 1/21 - 5/1**
Phone number:
Call to schedule an appointment: (844) 545-5640