The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), nine-digit number to track all information related to tax returns filed with them. It is issued either by the Social Security Administration (SSA) or by the IRS. A Social Security number (SSN) is issued by the SSA whereas all other TINs are issued by the IRS.
Following are the different types of Taxpayer Identification Numbers
- Social Security Number “SSN“
- Employer Identification Number “EIN“
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number “ITIN“
- Taxpayer Identification Number for Pending U.S. Adoptions “ATIN“
- Preparer Taxpayer Identification Number “PTIN“
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a federal tax identification number and is used to identify a business entity. It is commonly used by employers for the purpose of reporting taxes. It is also used by estates and trusts which have income which is required to be reported on Form 1041, U.S. Income Tax Return for Estates and Trusts. The EIN is a unique nine-digit number issued by the IRS and includes information about which state in which the corporation is registered.
How to Get an EIN?
Applying for an EIN costs nothing and an application form available on the IRS website can easily be filled and submitted electronically. Once the online information has been validated, an EIN is assigned immediately. However, a business must be located in the U.S. and must have a valid taxpayer identification number before it can be issued an Employer Identification Number.
Individual Tax Identification Number, ( ITIN)
Individual Tax Identification Number, or ITIN is a US taxpayer identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which allows the taxpayers without a Social Security Number (SSN) to file income tax returns. This tax processing number is only available for both residents and non-residents, their spouses, and dependents who aren’t eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN). It is a 9-digit number, beginning with the number “9” which appears similar to an SSN (XXX-XX-XXXX).
How to get an ITIN?
You are required to complete IRS Form W-7, IRS Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number and attach all the necessary documents along with your application.
You can submit your documents( attach your federal income tax return, Proof of Identity & foreign status) in the following ways:
- File the tax return to the address given below when you file Form W-7 to get an ITIN. Send your W-7 by a mail to:
Internal Revenue Service(IRS)
Austin Service Center
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
- You may apply for an ITIN by presenting the application using the services of an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent.
- You can make an appointment at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
