ITIN basics: what it is and how to apply
Learn what an ITIN is, who needs one, what Form W-7 asks for and the three ways to send an application, so you can read an acceptance agent listing and plan your next step.
Start the courseAbout this course
- Level
- Foundations
- Access
- Free
- Time
- 40 min
- Lessons
- 3
- Pass mark
- 80%
- Exam attempts
- 3
- Certificate valid for
- 1 year
What you will learn
- Say what an ITIN is, who needs one and what it does not do.
- Explain when Form W-7 goes with a federal tax return and when an exception applies.
- Compare the three ways to apply: by mail, in person at an IRS office or VITA site with ITIN services, and through an acceptance agent.
- Know the IRS processing times and when the IRS returns your documents.
Lessons
- What an ITIN is and who needs one 12 min
- Form W-7 and the tax return 12 min
- Three ways to apply 14 min
Questions
Is this course tax advice?
No. It restates what the IRS publishes about ITINs and Form W-7. For advice on your own tax position, ask a qualified tax professional. Read the current Form W-7 instructions before you file.
Does the certificate let me act as an acceptance agent?
No. It is a certificate of completion from this site. It records that you passed the exam. Only the IRS approves acceptance agents, through its Acceptance Agent Program.
Is this site part of the IRS?
No. This site is independent and is not endorsed by the IRS. The agent list comes from the IRS Acceptance Agent Program pages.
