IR-2003-49
WASHINGTON - The Internal Revenue Service reminds resident and non-resident aliens applying for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to use the newly revised Form W-7 beginning April 15.
The new application form requests additional information. The application is available in both English and Spanish on the IRS Web site, IRS.gov. The English language version of Form W-7 is available at
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw7.pdf. The Spanish language version, Form W-7(SP), is available at
www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw7sp.pdf.
To ensure timely approval, ITIN applicants should make sure they are using the new form. Old application forms used after April 15 will be returned to the applicant.
Along with their application, applicants must also submit documents proving their alien status and their identity. Individuals can mail the documentation to the Internal Revenue Service, Philadelphia Service Center, ITIN Unit, P. O. Box 447, Bensalem, PA 19020, process the application through an IRS authorized acceptance agent or submit their application at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
The IRS issues the nine-digit numbers to individuals who must have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but who aren't eligible for a Social Security number. ITINs are for tax purposes only and don't affect immigration status, authorize work in the U.S. or provide eligibility for Social Security benefits or the Earned Income Tax Credit.
