IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
The IRS page on ITINs, a tax number for people who need to file or be claimed on a federal tax return but are not eligible for a Social Security number. An ITIN is for tax purposes only and does not change immigration status or authorize work.
Your next step
Check whether you have a federal tax purpose, then apply or renew by mail or in person with Form W-7.
Questions to ask
- Do I need an ITIN, or can I get a Social Security number instead?
- Which documents do I need, and how do I get my originals back?
- Who can help me file for free?
If this one cannot help
Other starting points for the same need:
- IRS tax preparation help: Learn about volunteer tax preparation programs and how to find a participating site.
- CFPB consumer money tools: Explore information about bank accounts, credit, debt, loans and other money questions.
What this listing can tell you
Federal tax information. It is not immigration advice.
Do Not Lose Hope does not determine eligibility, appointments, or outcomes. A listing does not imply a partnership.
Official source & review
https://www.irs.gov/individuals/individual-taxpayer-identification-number
Source page checked: .
Official pages read on 2026-10-22 for service area, contact methods, cost, languages, intake and eligibility. Each field in verification names its source. Current openings and individual eligibility are not confirmed.
What the official pages say
- Service area
- Not recorded.
- How to contact
- 800-829-1040, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time; TTY 800-829-4059; abroad 267-941-1000. Stated on the official page, checked October 22, 2026. Source
- Cost
- Not stated on this page. Not stated on the official page, checked October 22, 2026. Source
- Languages
- Language links: Español, 中文 (简体), 中文 (繁體), 한국어, Русский, Tiếng Việt, Kreyòl ayisyen. Stated on the official page, checked October 22, 2026. Source
- How to start
- Apply by mail or in person; 7 weeks, or 9-11 weeks in tax season or from overseas. Stated on the official page, checked October 22, 2026. Source
- Stated limits
- Federal tax purpose and not eligible for an SSN; resident or nonresident aliens and their spouses or dependents 'regardless of immigration status'. Stated on the official page, checked October 22, 2026. Source
Current openings and whether you qualify are not confirmed. Ask the organization.
How we check sourcesGuides on this topic
- Money, Taxes and Credit Complete GuideYou can file taxes, get money back, open a bank account and build credit in California, with or without a Social Security number. This guide puts all of it in one place, from getting an ITIN to spotting a scam. Read it top to bottom, or jump to your own situation, and leave knowing your next step.Complete guide
- Earning Without a Work Permit Complete GuideNo work permit does not mean no way to earn. Many people in California build a living by working for themselves, as freelancers, independent contractors, licensed professionals, food sellers and small business owners. This guide shows you where the legal line is, how to set up, how to pay your taxes, how to protect your pay, and who will help you for free. Read it top to bottom, or jump straight to your situation.Complete guide