Frequently asked questions
ITIN and Form W-7 questions
Straight answers based on current IRS guidance. If something here does not fit your situation, ask us before you pay.
What is an ITIN?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is a nine-digit tax processing number the IRS issues to people who must have a U.S. taxpayer number but cannot get a Social Security Number. It is for federal tax purposes only.
Does an ITIN let me work or change my immigration status?
No. An ITIN does not authorize work in the United States, does not change immigration status, and is not a Social Security Number.
Who issues the ITIN?
The IRS. BKS is a Certifying Acceptance Agent that helps with the application. We are not an agent of the IRS and we cannot promise the IRS will issue an ITIN.
Do I have to send my passport to the IRS?
When you use a Certifying Acceptance Agent, the agent reviews your original documents and the IRS receives copies. For dependents, a CAA can authenticate only passports and birth certificates, so other dependent documents go to the IRS as originals or issuing-agency certified copies. Foreign military IDs must also go to the IRS directly.
Can I use a notarized copy of my documents?
No. The IRS does not accept notarized copies. It accepts originals and copies certified by the agency that issued the document. BKS Notary cannot make a copy acceptable to the IRS.
Why do I have to give you my original documents?
The IRS requires our CAA to have your original documents, or issuing-agency certified copies, in hand during the interview so we can see the security features. Video is allowed for the interview itself, but the documents must be with us.
Can the interview be by video?
Yes. The IRS allows video conferencing for the interview only. We interview every applicant, including dependents. We do not record the call.
Do I need to file a tax return?
Usually yes. Form W-7 is normally attached to a U.S. federal tax return. There are a few narrow exceptions with their own documentation. A CAA will help you work out which applies, but we cannot give tax advice.
Can my spouse and children get ITINs on the same application?
Yes, one case can include a primary taxpayer, a secondary taxpayer, and dependents. A spouse or dependent needs an allowable tax benefit, or their own return, and must be listed on the attached return.
How long does the IRS take?
The IRS says to allow about 7 weeks. It can be 9 to 11 weeks between January 15 and April 30 or when the application comes from overseas. These are IRS estimates.
What does the IRS charge?
Nothing. The IRS does not charge a fee for an ITIN. BKS charges a service fee for our work. You see the exact amount before you pay.
What if the IRS writes to me?
Keep the notice. A CP 566 notice asks for more information and has to be answered on the notice. Do not send a new Form W-7. Tell us and we will help you respond, and you can upload the notice to your account.
How do I renew an ITIN?
An ITIN expires if it was not on a federal return for three consecutive tax years. You only need to renew if it will be used on a return. You will need the previous ITIN, a return, and your documents.
Is my information safe?
Identity data is stored encrypted, documents are never sent by email or exposed through public links, access is limited to you and authorized BKS staff, and every access is logged. See our privacy notice.