Resources: ITINs | Recent updates
Avoiding ITIN Scams
When applying for an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN), one of the most important things you can do is protect yourself from potential fraud.
Ensure That You Qualify
Before starting the process, it’s important to understand an ITIN’s purpose and whether you qualify. An ITIN allows individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number to file taxes. To qualify for an ITIN, you need to have a tax filing obligation or be eligible to claim a refund of over-withheld tax or an allowable tax benefit. It does not give people permission to work in the United States.
To see if you qualify for an ITIN, we recommend using the IRS interactive screener tool.
Protect Yourself From Identity Theft
To apply for an ITIN, you must provide original copies of your identification documents. Ideally you will complete your ITIN application in one sitting, but if for some reason it takes longer, be sure to take your documents home with you. Do not leave your personal documents with anyone.
Once your ITIN application has been processed and approved, keep your ITIN information safe. Do not share it with anyone who does not need it.
Be Cautious of Big Promises
The IRS makes all final decisions on ITIN applications, and no one can guarantee approval or a faster processing time. If someone claims otherwise, which may be the case if they are charging higher fees, this may be a red flag. These promises are often misleading and could indicate a potential scam. Always verify the credentials and qualifications of anyone offering ITIN assistance.
- Ask for Credentials: Check if the preparer is a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) or an Acceptance Agent (AA). These individuals have specific training to complete Form W-7 (ITIN application).
- Ask About Tax Preparation: The ITIN application process often includes preparing a tax return, so confirm if they can also assist with filing your taxes.
Note: Anyone who prepares federal or California state tax returns for compensation is required to have a valid Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) unless they meet an exception.
Free ITIN Application Options
It is not necessary to pay when applying for an ITIN. This service is available for free through both VITA and the IRS. Below are the pros and cons of each method.
| METHOD | PROS | CONS |
|---|---|---|
| Apply by Mail File your taxes on your own, fill out a W-7 form and mail it along with your documents to the IRS. | It’s free. | You have to file taxes on your own. You have to fill out the W7 application on your own. You have to mail in your original documents. You may be without your documents for months depending on how long the process takes. |
| Apply at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center File your taxes on your own, fill out a W-7 form, and have your documents verified at a Taxpayer Assistance Center. | It’s free. You don’t have to mail in your original documents. | You have to file taxes on your own. You have to fill out the W7 application on your own. IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers are not available in every community. |
| Apply Through a VITA Site with a CAA File your taxes and complete your W7 application through a VITA site. A CAA at the VITA site certifies your documents and sends them to the IRS. | Taxes and W-7 form is done for you. It’s free. You don’t have to mail in your original documents. | Not all VITA sites have a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) on staff. While these sites may still assist with completing the W-7 form and your tax return, they cannot certify your identifying documents. In such cases, you will need to mail your original documents to the IRS for verification or visit a local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, which may extend the processing time. Always check with your local VITA site to confirm the services available. |