What is an ITIN?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is a U.S. tax-processing number for certain people who need a U.S. taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for a Social Security number. It does not provide immigration status, work authorization, or Social Security benefits.
How we help with documents
An IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent can help complete the ITIN application and authenticate permitted identity and foreign-status documents. Authenticated documents are generally returned immediately, and the CAA submits the application package to the IRS for processing. Special document rules can apply, particularly for dependents.
Service-area note: CAA document-review arrangements are currently available in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore. Location and document requirements are confirmed before scheduling.
How we help
- Confirm the applicant’s ITIN reason and whether an application or renewal is appropriate.
- Prepare and review the ITIN application for completeness and consistency.
- Review original identity and foreign-status documents within the CAA’s permitted scope.
- Prepare the certificate of accuracy and coordinate the IRS submission package.
- Coordinate the related U.S. tax return or applicable exception documentation when included in the engagement.
- Assist with IRS follow-up on the ITIN application when included in the agreed scope.
Keep your passport closer.
For a primary or secondary applicant, an IRS-authorized CAA can generally authenticate a permitted original passport and return it after review, so you may avoid mailing it to the IRS. Different rules apply to dependents and certain documents; we confirm the exact requirement before the appointment.
Common questions
Do I need to mail my original passport to the IRS?
Not in every case. For a primary or secondary applicant, a CAA can generally authenticate a permitted original passport and return it rather than requiring it to be mailed with the application. Applicant type and document rules must be checked first, especially for dependents.
Where can document review be arranged?
Current arrangements may be available in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, and Singapore. We confirm the applicant, location, and document requirements before scheduling.
Who may need an ITIN?
It is intended for certain individuals who have a U.S. federal tax purpose and need a taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for a Social Security number. The reason for applying must be supported under IRS rules.
Does the CAA issue the ITIN?
No. The CAA helps prepare and submit the application, but the IRS reviews the package and decides whether to issue the ITIN.
General references: IRS ITIN Acceptance Agents and IRS ITIN Supporting Documents.