ITIN application and renewal · Dallas
ITIN application and renewal help in Dallas.
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is issued by the IRS for federal tax purposes to certain people who need a U.S. taxpayer identification number but do not have—and are not eligible for—a Social Security number.
- Form W-7 guidance
- New application and renewal support
- Spanish-language assistance available
What this page covers
Understand the W-7 process
- Confirm why an ITIN is needed
- Prepare identity and foreign-status documents
- File the tax return or qualifying exception
Before applying
An ITIN serves a specific federal tax purpose.
Form W-7 is used to apply for a new ITIN or renew an existing ITIN. Eligibility, documentation and whether a tax return must be attached depend on the applicant’s circumstances.
Important: An ITIN does not provide work authorization, Social Security benefits or immigration status. It is not a substitute for an SSN when a person is eligible for one.
Common reasons to seek help
- Applying for an ITIN with a federal tax return
- Renewing an expired ITIN needed for a return
- Preparing Form W-7 for a spouse or dependent when permitted
- Understanding identity and foreign-status documentation
- Reviewing whether an exception to the attached-return rule may apply
Application or renewal
Build the package in the right order.
Each person applying needs a completed Form W-7 and the required supporting information.
Confirm eligibility
Determine why a federal taxpayer identification number is needed and whether the person is ineligible for an SSN.
Complete Form W-7
Choose new application or renewal and complete the reason and identification sections accurately.
Prepare support
Gather the required identity and foreign-status documents and the federal return or applicable exception documentation.
Submit correctly
Use an IRS-authorized submission method and keep copies and delivery records where appropriate.
Document planning
Do not mail original documents without understanding the options.
The IRS permits specific original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency. Application channels and document handling differ, so confirm the current requirements first.
- W-7
Form
Form W-7
Complete a separate W-7 for each applicant and select the correct application or renewal reason.
- 1040
Return
Federal tax return
Many applications and renewals include a federal income tax return unless an IRS exception applies.
- ID
Identity
Identity documents
Provide documentation that meets IRS identity and foreign-status requirements. Passport rules and alternatives are described in W-7 instructions.
Common questions
Clear answers before you begin.
What is an ITIN?
An ITIN is a nine-digit IRS number for federal tax purposes. It is for people who need a U.S. taxpayer identification number but do not have and are not eligible for an SSN. See IRS Form W-7 guidance.
Can Form W-7 be used for both an application and a renewal?
Yes. The current Form W-7 includes application types for a new ITIN and renewal of an existing ITIN.
When does an ITIN expire?
The IRS says an ITIN generally expires after it is not included on a federal tax return for three consecutive tax years. Other historic expiration rules may also apply; confirm status before filing.
Does an ITIN let someone work in the United States?
No. IRS instructions state that an ITIN does not change immigration status or provide a right to work in the United States.
Local help in Dallas–Fort Worth
Review the ITIN requirements before submitting documents.
Contact an AmeriTax office to discuss whether you need a new ITIN or renewal and which supporting documents may apply.
