FAQ on ITIN

Q: What is an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)?

A: An ITIN is an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. ITINs are used by resident and nonresident aliens, who are not eligible to obtain a Social Security number and need to report taxes, including a U.S. tax return.

Q: Do I need an ITIN?

A: If you are a foreign individual and do not qualify for an SSN, and you have tax reporting or filing requirements, you will need an ITIN.

Q: What does a Certifying Acceptance Agent do?

A: A Certifying Acceptance Agent helps alien or foreign individuals receive an ITIN from the IRS. They are authorized by the IRS to review documentation, complete a certificate of accuracy and send it to the IRS to be processed.

Q: Can I use my ITIN to claim earned income tax?

A: No, according to section 32 of the Internal Revenue Code you cannot claim earned income tax credit.

Q: Does an ITIN change my immigration status?

A: No, an ITIN does not change your immigration status and it does not give you legal employment in the United States.

Q: Is an ITIN the same as a SSN?

A: No, an ITIN is not the same as a SSN, it does not give you Social Security benefits, Earned Income Tax Credit, and it cannot be used as identification or for work purposes.

Q: Can I use my ITIN if I am eligible for a SSN?

A: No, if you are eligible for a SSN you must apply for it with the Social Security Administration and you cannot use the ITIN.

Q: How do I apply for an ITIN?

A: If you are able to come into our office, all you need to do is bring your W-2 Forms, Form 1099, Form 1098 if any, and your passport and we will complete all of the forms required to get the ITIN. If you are unable to come into the office please see question below.

Q: Do I have to come into the office to apply?

A: No if you cannot come into the office, i.e. you live out of state, you may use our drop off service through our client portal or via email. Once we receive your documents we will send you a confirmation email. We will then complete a draft of your tax return and either upload it or email it to you. We will call you and go over the draft line by line to ensure it is accurate. Once everything is accurate and complete we will upload or email the return for your signature. The return will need to be signed by both the tax payer and spouse if applicable, and the applicant will applicant will also need to sign the ITIN application. If the applicant is a minor, one of the parents can sign for them. You will then need to Fed Ex the ITIN applicant's passport, signed tax return, copy of the W2, and the signed ITIN application to our office. After we receive your documents we will do a video conference to verify your identity and accuracy. We will then process everything through the IRS and Fed Ex your passport back to you.

Q: What can I use to provide proof of identity and foreign status?

A: Greatways Tax Service Inc will accept an original, unexpired passport with current valid visa because it shows proof of your foreign status and your identity.

Q: When should I apply?

A: You can apply for an ITIN anytime during the year, however you will need to have the W-7 complete and attached to your federal income tax, if you do not you may owe penalties and/or penalties, therefore it is best to have the form completed as soon as you are ready to file your taxes.

Q: How long does it take to receive my ITIN?

A: Once your application complete and sent to the IRS, it usually takes the IRS 4 to 6 Weeks to send you a letter with your ITIN.

Q: What is the fee to use Greatways Tax Service as a Certifying Acceptance Agent?

A: If you come into the office we charge $50.00 (Fed Ex charge is included), if you are out of state and the certification is done via mail and video conference, the fee is $75.00 ( Fed Ex charge is included). We will return your passport back by Fed Ex.

Q: What is the fee to prepare the ITIN Application?

A: We charge $15.00 for each ITIN application.

Q: If I have any more questions can I contact you?

A: You are always welcome to contact us by email Info@greatwaysinc.com or by phone 630-663-1500 x 1 For Pramod Zacharias and x 4 for Customer Service. Our preferred way of communication is Email.