Are you a non-resident who is not qualified for an SSN? Then Form W-7 is the solution to your problem. This form is necessary to apply for an ITIN and is attached to the tax return and mailed to the IRS. ITIN is important for non-residents, including tax filing, reporting income to the state, claiming benefits, etc.
To better understand the Form W-7 instructions for ITIN and filing procedures, continue reading our blog.
What Is IRS Form W-7?
IRS Form W-7, an ITIN application form, is used to apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). We know that an ITIN is necessary for proving eligibility to work in the US.
When an individual is not qualified for a Social Security number (SSN) but needs to file a US federal tax return, they can file Form W-7.Most non-residents are required to file Form W-7.
Why Is IRS Form W-7 Important?
To get a work permit in the US, both residents and non-residents need an SSN. If non-residents and their dependents are not eligible for an SSN, they can apply for an ITIN by filing Form W-7.
With Form W-7, they can be eligible for US tax filing and other tax benefits. We listed some below:
- Identification:An ITIN is a unique identification for every individual in the US. By filing Form W-7, non-residents can obtain an ITIN from the IRS for legal identification. Also, their identity can’t be stolen if they obtain an ITIN.
- Tax Compliance:The primary purpose of filing Form W-7 and obtaining an ITIN is to ensure that individuals can maintain compliance with US tax laws. It allows the IRS to track non-residents’ tax filings, payments, and other tax-related activities.
- Tax Benefits:Some non-residents can get tax treaty benefits by filing Form W-7. Also, they can reduce or exempt tax liabilities.
Form W-7 Instructions
Before filing the Form W-7, you must know the eligibility, requirements, necessary documents, and filing instructions. So, we will now break down the steps of filing Form W-7 below.
Who Can Apply for Form W-7?
- Non-resident Aliens who are not eligible for an SSN
- Spouses and dependents of non-resident aliens
- Resident aliens who are not eligible for an SSN
Who Can Not Apply for Form W-7?
- An Eligible person for an SSN
- Non-Tax Filers
- Non-Resident Aliens With No U.S. Tax Obligations
Purpose of Form W-7
People file Form W-7 for two purposes:
- If they want to apply for a new ITIN.
- If they want to renew an ITIN.
Who Can Apply for Form W-7?
- Non-resident Aliens who are not eligible for an SSN.
- Spouses and dependents of non-resident aliens.
- Resident aliens who are not eligible for an SSN.
Who Can not Apply for Form W-7?
- An Eligible person for an SSN.
- Non-Tax Filers.
- Non-Resident Aliens With No U.S. Tax Obligations.
Purpose of ITIN Form W-7
People file Form W-7 for two purposes:
- If they want to apply for a new ITIN.
- If they want to renew an ITIN.
Requirements for the Form W-7
For filing Form W-7, you will need some crucial information.
- The reason for applying for an ITIN.
- Applicant’s name and address.
- Applicant’s birth information.
- Applicant’s citizenship.
- Applicant’s fax number.
- Applicant’s visa number.
- And some supporting documents that verify the applicant’s identity.
Required Supporting Documents for the Form W-7
To file Form W-7, you should submit some important documents. Those documents must meet three requirements.
- The documents must establish the applicant’s identity and connection to a foreign country.
- The documents must be original.
- The documents must be valid (not expired).
The necessary supporting documents are-
- Passport.
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) photo identification.
- Visa issued by the U.S. Department of State.
- U.S. driver’s license.
- U.S. military identification card.
- Foreign driver’s license.
- Foreign military identification card.
- National Identification Card (NID).
- U.S. state identification card.
- A foreign voter’s registration card.
- Civil birth certificate.
- Medical records (valid only for dependents under age 6).
- School records (valid only for a dependent under age 18, if a student).
Make sure that you submit all the valid documents.
How to Fill Out the Form W 7 Instructions for ITIN
To fill out the Form correctly, follow our step-by-step guide below.
- Download FormW-7 from theIRS website.
- Review the Form W-7 instructionsto understand the eligibility, requirements, and supporting documents.
- Complete the Form,submitting all the necessary information.
- Sign the Formbefore filing to prove your consent.
- Attach the supporting documentswith Form W-7.
- Review your completed Formto ensure accuracy.
- Submit your Formto the IRS address via mail.
- Make a copyof your submitted Form W-7 for records.
Benefits of Filing Form W-7
Besides the obvious reasons, filing Form W-7 also offers several benefits to eligible applicants. Take a look at the below-listed benefits.
- Compliance with Tax Obligations:Obtaining an ITIN is necessary to comply with US tax laws. Form W-7 filing helps maintain good standing with state laws.
- Filing Tax Return:Non-residents are required to file Form W-7 for filing a US federal tax return.
- Tax Treaty Benefits:To claim several tax treaty benefits, including refunds, tax reductions, etc.
- Open a Bank Account: To open a bank account, you will need an ITIN. That is why filing Form W-7 is necessary.
- Dependents Identification:Filing Form W-7 is crucial for non-resident spouses and dependents to prove their identification.
- Dependent Facilities:By filing Form W-7, spouses and dependents of non-resident aliens can get several benefits.
Take Help While Filing
To get all the benefits of getting an ITIN, you should file Form W-7 with your tax return application, Form 1040. Also, you can file Form W-7 separately for other purposes. But filing Form W-7 may appear to be an intricate process, requiring detailed attention to the necessary steps and documentation.
However,Business Globalizercan streamline this procedure without any hassle. Business Globalizer has been recognized for tax preparation and filing for several years.
FAQ
Q1. Where should I send form W-7?
A: As an applicant, you can submit your Form W-7 in three ways.
- In-person – you can visit the office to submit your Form. In that case, you should get an appointment scheduled for IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) assistance.
- By mail – You can mail your Form to the IRS website address.
Mailing Address for Applicants Within the United States:
Internal Revenue Service
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
Mailing Address for Applicants Outside the United States:
Internal Revenue Service
ITIN Operation P.O. Box 447
Bensalem, PA 19020
USA
c. Via an Acceptance Agent – You can get help from an acceptance agent for submitting your Form.
Q2. When do I submit form W-7?
A: There is no specific deadline for filing Form W-7. You can apply for an ITIN by filing Form W-7 whenever you want. Generally, Form W-7 should be submitted with Form 1040 for tax purposes.
Q3. Can I submit the IRS form W-7 online?
A: No, unfortunately, you can’t file Form W-7 online. You must submit your Form via mail or in person.
Bottom Line
Filing Form W-7 is beneficial, but the process is time-consuming. It can take 8 to 10 weeks to process the application. Read carefully the Form W-7 instructions for ITIN to avoid any mistakes and get your ITIN quickly.
