Answering Questions on Getting an ITIN Number

Often, people who want to get an ITIN number are confused about the completing, filing, and submitting process. The reason for their confusion is the looming questions they have about the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

The only thing they might be aware of is the purpose of applying to get an ITIN number, which is to become taxpaying residents of the United States. Before any questions can be answered, a background of what exactly is an ITIN and how it formed is important to know.

Brief History of the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number

In July of 1996, the Internal Revenue Service or IRS introduced the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number as a method for foreign residents of another country residing in the United States to pay their taxes.

Since they were not eligible to pay their taxes through a SNN, they would be granted legal taxpaying status through ITIN. SNN and ITIN are not alike, and it is pertinent to know that beforehand. Hence, the first question will discuss the difference between the two.

What is the Difference between ITINs and SNNs?

In order to get an ITIN number, you must be aware of how ITINs are different from their counterpart. Here is what you need to know:

• The Number of Digits

When you get an ITIN number, the first difference you will see is in the number of digits. The ITIN number has nine digits starting with the number nine and having a number seven or eight in the fourth digit. For instance, 9XX-8X-XXXX.

• ITINs Do Not Grant Any Immigration Benefits

An ITIN does not grant legal immigrant status in the United Sates nor can you use it to prove your legal presence. If you are a legal resident of the country and want to obtain citizenship later on, you must get an ITIN number. Furthermore, you cannot use the ITIN form to prove you are authorized to work in the country.

Who Are Required to Pay Taxes, but Are Not Eligible for an SSN?

The following people are required to pay taxes, but cannot apply for an SSN:

• Non-Resident Aliens

Non-resident aliens residing in the United States will not be able to obtain a SSN, but they will be able to get an ITIN number. People who are considered non-resident aliens do not hold a green card or do not meet the substantial presence criteria for the following calendar year. For instance, you will be considered a non-resident alien if you have a business established in the United States, but you live in another country.

• Resident Aliens

A student is an example of a resident alien studying in the United States for a required number of days.

• Dependent, Spouse, Children, Legal Resident

The dependent or spouse of a legal immigrant residing in the U.S on a temporary visa qualifies to get an ITIN number.

What Are Some Other Reasons to Get an ITIN Number?

Here are two main reasons you should get an ITIN number:

• Opening a Bank Account

You can open an interest-bearing bank account.

• Getting a Driver’s License

You can get a driver’s license, driving permit, or a state identification card.

If you need help filling out the form, contact an immigration firm.

If you want to apply for an, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or ITIN tax number and have any other questions, please feel free to contact us at 888-509-3616. If you have any suggestions please share those with us as well. Freedomtax ITIN Number has a professional team of IRS Certifying Acceptance Agents, and tax accounting professionals with more than 16 years of experience, helping immigrants with their ITIN application. Freedomtax can also help immigrant entrepreneurs incorporate a business in the USA. Freedomtax ITIN Tax Number Online services provides Quality, Professional Service with a Family Feel.