Why Do I Need an ITIN as a Nonresident Alien?

Why Do I Need an ITIN as a Nonresident Alien?

đź“… November 11, 2024
⏱️ 3-minute read

🧭 Quick take

If you’re in the U.S. without an SSN but need to file taxes, claim a refund, receive a taxable scholarship, or claim a treaty benefit, you’ll likely need an ITIN. Here’s the fast, clear guide.

1) âť“ What is an ITIN?

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a tax processing number issued by the IRS to people who aren’t eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) but still need a U.S. taxpayer ID to file, report, or claim benefits on a return.

✔️ ITINs are issued regardless of immigration status.
✔️ You apply using Form W-7.

2) 🧩 Why might you need an ITIN?

You need (or may benefit from) an ITIN if you don’t qualify for an SSN and you are:

  • 🎓 A nonresident expecting taxable scholarship, fellowship, or grant income

  • 🌍 A nonresident claiming a tax treaty benefit

  • 🧾 A nonresident filing a U.S. tax return (1040-NR)

  • đź’¸ A nonresident filing only to claim a refund of over-withheld tax

  • 🏠 A resident for tax purposes (via days present) who still isn’t SSN-eligible but must file

Bottom line: No SSN + a U.S. tax reason = likely W-7 for an ITIN.

3) đź“‘ What documents do I need?

The IRS accepts 13 types of ID documents. The gold standard is:

🛂 Passport (original or certified copy) → covers identity + foreign status (alone).

If you don’t submit a passport, you’ll need a combination of two or more valid documents (unexpired or issued within 12 months if no expiry), showing your name, photo (for identity), and foreign status (e.g., birthplace/foreign address). Accepted items include:

  • National ID card (with photo, name, current address, DOB, expiration)

  • U.S./foreign driver’s license

  • Civil birth certificate

  • U.S. state ID card

  • Foreign voter registration card

  • U.S./foreign military ID

  • USCIS photo ID / U.S. visa

  • Medical records (dependents under 14)

  • School records (dependents/students under 25)

Certification matters:
If you mail copies, they must be certified by the issuing agency, a Designated School Official (DSO) (where permitted), an IRS official/ITIN office, or a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA).
👉 J1 Summer Tax Back helps you choose the right combo and get proper certification so your W-7 isn’t rejected.

4) ⏳ How long does it take?

Typical processing is up to ~8 weeks (sometimes longer), especially during peak season or if documents need correction. You’ll receive an IRS letter with your assigned ITIN once approved.

5) 🛟 Need help getting an ITIN?

We’ve got you. J1 Summer Tax Back can:

  • âś… Check whether you need an ITIN or SSN

  • âś… Assemble a W-7 package tailored to your case (scholarship, treaty, refund, etc.)

  • âś… Guide you on document certification (passport vs. alternatives)

  • âś… Pair your W-7 with your 1040-NR if required (often the fastest approval path)

  • âś… Track next steps until you receive your IRS notice

No SSN? No problem. We’ll map the cleanest route to your ITIN and keep you compliant.

✨ Quick checklist (save this!)

  • Do you have a U.S. tax reason (return, refund, treaty, taxable scholarship)?

  • If no SSN, complete Form W-7

  • Use passport (best) or approved combo of certified IDs

  • Mail with supporting tax return (unless an exception applies)

  • Watch for your IRS ITIN letter