Glossary
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
Definition
An ITIN is a nine-digit tax processing number issued by the IRS to individuals who must file or be listed on a U.S. tax return but are not eligible for a Social Security number. It is used only for federal tax purposes.
Who may need one
Foreign individuals who have a U.S. filing requirement or claim a treaty benefit, and others on a return who cannot get an SSN, may need an ITIN. It is requested with Form W-7, normally attached to a tax return unless an exception applies.
What it is not
- It is not a work authorization or immigration status.
- It is different from an EIN, which identifies a business or entity.
- It does not by itself create tax residency.
Common confusion
A foreign owner of a U.S. LLC does not always need an ITIN just to form the company or get an EIN. Whether an ITIN is needed depends on what the person must file or claim. Applications need identity documents, and processing can take time.
Practical example
For example, suppose Lucía, who lives in Chile, has U.S. rental income and must file Form 1040-NR. She has no SSN, so she may apply for an ITIN with Form W-7 together with her return.
General information, not tax advice
This page provides general educational information about U.S. federal tax rules. It is not individualized tax, legal or accounting advice, and it does not create a client relationship. Results depend on each taxpayer's specific facts.
Written by Roger I. Chirino, founder of Chirino USA Accountants & Advisors P.A.
Supported by licensed CPAs, IRS Enrolled Agents (EAs), and experienced U.S. tax professionals focused on cross-border compliance and planning.
Related questions
Does a nonresident need an ITIN to file a U.S. tax return?
Can a foreigner own a U.S. LLC without an ITIN?
Does a foreign-owned single-member LLC need an EIN?
Does a foreign owner of a U.S. LLC need to file Form 1040-NR?
Does a foreign-owned LLC need to file a U.S. tax return if it had no income?
Does a foreign-owned LLC with a U.S. bank account owe U.S. tax?
Related IRS forms
Related penalties
Related articles
ITIN or EIN? What a Foreign Owner Actually Needs for a U.S. Company or Property
U.S. Tax Filing Checklist for Foreign Individuals With U.S. Income
Can a Non-U.S. Citizen Own a U.S. LLC — and Do Foreign Owners Have to File a U.S. Tax Return?
Foreign-Owned Single-Member LLC: Annual U.S. Filing Step by Step
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Five Years of Missing Forms 5472: How We Helped a Foreign Owner Catch Up
A Foreign Investor Owned U.S. Rental Properties Through LLCs. What Needed to Be Filed?
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