FAQs - W7 Application

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Are ITINs and SSNs the same thing?

No. ITINs and SSNs are not the same. An ITIN does not give you Social Security benefits and earned income tax credit. Additionally, an ITIN cannot be utilized as identification or for work purposes.

What is your firm’s success rate for ITIN applications?

100%. We have never had an ITIN application rejected due to our rigorous diligence and professional process.

Why use a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA)?

An applicant can apply for an ITIN themselves, but must submit original identification documents proving identity and alien status. This causes the applicant to be without their original documents, including their passport, for months. Using a government-licensed CAA to submit your ITIN application allows you to keep your original documents and to receive your ITIN faster.

If I am eligible for a SSN, can I use my ITIN?

No. If you are qualified for a SSN, you must apply for it with the Social Security Administration.

What is the role of a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA)?

A Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) assists foreign individuals in obtaining an ITIN from the Internal Revenue Service. This person is authorized by the IRS to examine documentation, complete a certificate of accuracy and submit it to the IRS to be processed.

Does an ITIN alter my immigration status?

No. An ITIN does not alter your immigration status.

How long until I receive my ITIN?

The standard time to receive an ITIN is about 6 – 8 weeks. Our applications are typically returned in 3-4 weeks. Applications mailed during peak handing out times (usually from January 15 to April 30) or from abroad may take 8 – 10 weeks.

Do I Need an ITIN?

If you do not qualify for an SSN or if you are a foreign individual and you have tax filing or reporting requirements, you need this ITIN.

Do I have to come to your office to apply for ITIN?

No. Our CAAs can correspond with you over email, Skype, WeChat, WhatsApp, etc. to set up an initial consultation and explain the process and the documents / information we require from you. Once received, the CAA will certify the validity of your original identification documents and will conduct a virtual interview with you to complete the ITIN application. Finally, you will be required to sign the original ITIN application and FedEx the application to our office so that we can finalize and submit it for the IRS to review.

What documents are acceptable as proof of identity and foreign status?

The IRS requires proof of both identity and foreign status. An original passport is the only document that is accepted for both identity and foreign status. If you do not have a passport, you must provide a combination of current documents that contain expiration dates, show your name and photograph, and support your claim of foreign status.

Supporting Documentation	Can be used to establish:
Supporting Documentation	Foreign status	Identity
Passport (the only stand-alone document)	X	X
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)photo identification	X	X
Visa issued by U.S. Department of State	X	X
U.S. driver’s license		X
U.S. military identification card		X
Foreign driver’s license		X
Foreign military identification card	X	X
National identification card (must be current and contain name, photograph, address, date of birth and expiration date)	X	X
U.S. state identification card		X
Foreign voter’s registration card	X	X
Civil birth certificate	X^*	X
Medical records (valid only for dependents under age 14 (under age 18 if a student))	X^*	X
School records (valid only for dependents under age 14 (under age 18 if student))	X^*	X
^*Can be used to establish foreign status only if they are foreign documents.

What is an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or ITIN?

An ITIN refers to Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. These ITINs are often used by non-resident aliens and resident who are not qualified to get a Social Security number and required to file taxes like U.S. tax return.

How will I be notified that an ITIN has been issued to me?

The IRS will send you a notification by mail.

When should I apply?

You can apply for an ITIN anytime this year. But, you will need to have the W-7 completed and attached to your federal income tax. This is a must if you don’t want to pay penalties. Thus, it is best to have the form completed as early as you are ready to file your taxes.

Do you issue an invoice / receipt for an ITIN application?

Yes. The invoice will be emailed to you immediately after purchase.

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