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What an ITIN is

An alternative tax number for people who cannot get an SSN.

EIN and ITIN · 2 min read · Updated November 11, 2026

In this guide
  1. What it is for
  2. Who may need one
  3. How it relates to an EIN
  4. How people apply
  5. What Fairentity does

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or ITIN, is a nine digit tax processing number the IRS issues to people who must file or be named on a U.S. tax return but are not eligible for a Social Security number. It always starts with the digit 9.

What it is for

An ITIN is only for federal tax purposes. It does not authorize work in the United States, does not change immigration status and does not provide Social Security benefits.

Who may need one

People who are not eligible for an SSN and who have a U.S. tax filing or reporting requirement may need an ITIN. That can include a foreign owner of a U.S. company in some situations. Whether it applies to you depends on your own facts.

How it relates to an EIN

An ITIN belongs to a person. An EIN belongs to a business. They are separate numbers and one does not replace the other. Many foreign owners obtain an EIN for their company without having an ITIN. See our article on getting an EIN without a Social Security number.

How people apply

Applicants submit Form W-7 along with documents that prove identity and foreign status. The IRS lists the accepted documents, and passports are the most common. Some applications must be submitted with a tax return or with a statement explaining why an exception applies. The process takes time, and requirements change, so check the current instructions from the IRS.

What Fairentity does

We do not apply for ITINs. If an ITIN is relevant to you, Fae can explain in general terms how it works and can ask a person on our team to point you to resources.

Whether you need an ITIN is a question for a licensed tax professional who knows your situation.

This is general information, not legal or tax advice.

General information, not legal or tax advice. If your case needs it, a licensed attorney or accountant can advise you. Read the disclaimer

Related questions

What people usually ask after reading this.

How do I get an EIN without an SSN?

The is your company's federal tax number. When the responsible party has no SSN or , Fae prepares the SS-4 form for you to sign and we send it to the IRS. That route usually takes 4 to 10 business days.

Do I need an ITIN?

Not to form the company or to get its . An is a tax number for you, not for the company, and it is a separate service we prepare with you and a certified acceptance agent if you need it.

How long does the EIN take and what do I receive at the end?

If the responsible party has no SSN or , the application is done on Form SS-4 and usually takes 4 to 10 business days. When the IRS approves, it sends the number in a letter and we place a copy in your dashboard. We tell you when we send the form and when the IRS replies.

Who is the responsible party on the EIN form?

It is the person who ultimately owns or controls the company. The application asks for a tax number for that person; if they have no SSN or , the line is marked as foreign or not applicable and the form goes in on paper.

Does an EIN give me the right to live or work in the US?

No. The identifies the company to the IRS and nothing more. It has no relation to a visa, a work permit or residency.

Keep reading

See all guides

Still have a question about your case?

This guide is general. Fae can apply it to your company, your country and your state.