First-time ITIN applications
Review the reason for applying, Form W-7, the federal tax return or exception evidence, and the most appropriate filing route.
ITIN APPLICATION SUPPORT
ITIN Application Service for Form W-7
Practical support for first-time ITIN applications, renewals, document review, Form W-7 exceptions and IRS correspondence — with the filing route matched to the applicant’s situation.
ITIN CAA focus
ITIN CAA
This site is organized around the questions people ask when they already know they need an ITIN and are comparing the CAA route: document authentication, interview requirements, overseas applications, Form W-7 accuracy and what happens after submission.
What the service covers
Build the application around the tax reason first
An ITIN application is not just a Form W-7. The filing reason, tax return or exception, identity documents and submission route need to agree with each other. Our support focuses on checking those pieces before the package goes to the IRS.
If the applicant is eligible for an SSN, an ITIN is generally not the correct route.
ITIN application support
ITIN renewals
Confirm whether an expired ITIN needs to be renewed and prepare the renewal Form W-7 and current supporting documents.
Supporting-document review
Check identity, foreign-status and dependent residency documents against current IRS requirements before submission.
Form W-7 exception review
When no federal tax return is attached, identify the claimed IRS exception and the evidence that must support it.
Dependent applications
Review residency and document-authentication rules that can differ from the rules for primary and secondary applicants.
IRS notice follow-up
Organize a response when the IRS requests more information, including notices such as CP566 or a rejected application notice such as CP567.
Application package
What you normally need to apply for an ITIN
1. Form W-7
Complete Form W-7 using the application reason that matches the applicant’s federal tax purpose. Names, dates and identification details should match the supporting documents.
2. A federal tax return or an IRS-listed exception
Most new applicants attach a U.S. federal income tax return. Some applicants qualify for a specific exception to the tax-return requirement and must submit the evidence required for that exception.
3. Supporting documents
The IRS requires proof of identity and foreign status. A valid passport is generally the only stand-alone document that proves both; without a passport, the applicant normally needs two accepted supporting documents.
Choose the filing route that fits the documents
You can apply by mail or in person. A participating IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center or an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent may let eligible documents be authenticated instead of mailed as originals.
Direct IRS filing
Form W-7, tax return or exception evidence, and required supporting documents are mailed to the IRS ITIN operation.
CAA route
Learn what a CAA can authenticate, the interview rules and the limits that apply to dependent documents.
Applying from outside the U.S.
Compare overseas mail and CAA options, certified-copy rules and current IRS timing for international applications.
Send a short case summary and we can identify which part of the ITIN process needs attention first.
Email your case