What Is an ITIN?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a 9-digit tax ID issued by the IRS to individuals who need to file US taxes but are not eligible for a Social Security Number. It always begins with the number 9 (format: 9XX-XX-XXXX) and is used exclusively for federal tax purposes.
If you are a non-US citizen earning US income — whether through Upwork, direct client contracts, US-based platforms, or investments — the IRS expects you to file a tax return. Without an ITIN, you cannot do that. You also cannot fill out a W-8BEN form, which US clients often require before making payments to foreign contractors. Without submitting a W-8BEN, US companies may withhold 30% of your earnings as a precautionary tax.
Who Needs an ITIN?
You need an ITIN if you fall into any of these categories:
You are a non-US resident receiving payments from US clients and need to file a US federal tax return. You are a non-US member of a US LLC and are required to file taxes as part of that business entity. You want to open a US business bank account or use payment platforms that require a US tax ID. You work on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal that require tax documentation before releasing payments. You want to claim a refund or allowable tax benefit on income earned from US sources.
How to Get an ITIN: 3 Methods
Mail your application directly to the IRS
Complete Form W-7, attach your tax return (if required), and mail original identity documents (or certified copies) to the IRS ITIN Operations center in Austin, TX. Processing takes 7–11 weeks, longer during tax season (January–April). The main drawback: you have to mail original documents like your passport, which can take up to 60 days to be returned.
Apply in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)
If you are physically in the US, you can visit a TAC with an appointment. They will verify your documents on-site so you don’t have to mail originals. Only available to people who are already in the United States — not useful for international freelancers applying from abroad.
Use a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) — recommended for non-US applicants
A CAA is an IRS-authorized professional who can verify your identity documents remotely and submit Form W-7 on your behalf. This means you never have to mail your passport overseas. The entire process can be done remotely, making it the best option for international freelancers. Services like TheITIN.com act as CAAs and handle everything from document preparation to IRS submission.
Step-by-Step: Applying via a CAA Service
Sign up and provide your information
Submit your name, address, date of birth, and the reason you need an ITIN. Common reasons include filing a tax return as a nonresident alien or receiving income from a US partnership or business.
Upload your identity documents
A valid passport is the only document that satisfies both identity and foreign status requirements on its own. Upload a clear scan or photo. The CAA reviews and certifies the copy — no mailing required.
Complete a video consultation (if required)
Some CAA services like TheITIN.com offer a short video call with their team to verify your identity and confirm all details are correct before submission. This replaces the in-person verification step.
CAA submits Form W-7 to the IRS
The CAA prepares and files your application. You receive status updates as the IRS processes it. Processing typically takes 6–11 weeks from submission date.
Receive your ITIN
The IRS mails an ITIN Assignment Letter with your number. Once received, you can submit your W-8BEN to US clients, file your tax return, and use the number for any other federal tax purposes.
Skip the IRS Paperwork — Use a CAA Service
TheITIN.com handles the entire application process for you. Fully online, IRS-authorized, multilingual support. Use code WORKREMOTE for $50 off.
Get Your ITIN — $50 Off →Documents You Need
A valid foreign passport is the simplest option — it satisfies both identity and foreign status requirements on its own. If you don’t have a passport, the IRS accepts combinations of at least two other documents, at least one of which must contain a photograph. Acceptable alternatives include a national ID card, foreign driver’s license, foreign military ID, or a US visa.
All documents must be current (not expired) and must be originals or certified copies from the issuing government agency. Notarized copies are not accepted.
How Long Does It Take?
The IRS typically processes ITIN applications in 7–11 weeks from the date they receive your complete application. During peak tax season (January through April), processing can take up to 14 weeks or longer. Applying through a CAA service generally speeds up processing since applications are submitted correctly the first time — errors and missing documents are a common cause of delays.
What Happens After You Get Your ITIN?
Once you receive your ITIN, fill it into the taxpayer identification number field on Form W-8BEN and submit that form to every US company you do freelance work for. This certifies your non-US status and ensures US companies do not withhold the standard 30% tax from your payments. Your ITIN remains valid as long as you file a US tax return at least once every three consecutive years. If you stop filing for three years, the ITIN expires and must be renewed.
ITIN vs EIN — What’s the Difference?
An ITIN is a personal tax ID for individual filers who are not eligible for an SSN. An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a business tax ID for entities like LLCs and corporations. If you form a US LLC as a non-US resident, you may need both: an EIN for the business entity and an ITIN as the individual member. Some CAA services like TheITIN.com handle both applications together, which can simplify the process if you are setting up a full US business structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
This post contains affiliate links. WRT.org earns a commission when you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you. TheITIN.com is a private service provider — not affiliated with the IRS or US government. Full disclosure →
