Jupiter Filling is a business consultant who helps individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of the U.S. tax system. In his experience, one issue that many of his clients face is the need for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). ITINs are issued by the IRS to individuals who do not have and are not eligible to obtain a valid Social Security Number (SSN) in the United States.
As Jupiter explains to his clients, there are many reasons why someone may need an ITIN. For example, non-resident aliens who are required to file a U.S. tax return, but who do not have and are not eligible to obtain an SSN, may need an ITIN. Similarly, individuals who are not eligible for an SSN, but who have taxable income in the United States, such as foreign students or scholars, may need an ITIN to file their tax returns.
To apply for an ITIN, Jupiter advises his clients to fill out Form W-7, which is available on the IRS website. The form requires information such as the individual's name, date of birth, and country of citizenship or nationality. In addition, the form requires documentation to prove the individual's identity and foreign status. This documentation can include a passport, driver's license, or other government-issued identification.
Jupiter Filling also reminds his clients that the process of obtaining an ITIN can take several weeks, so it's important to plan ahead if an ITIN is needed for tax purposes. In addition, it's important to keep the ITIN up-to-date, as failure to do so can result in delays in processing tax returns and other important documents.