8 January 2024

How to file US tax returns with an ITIN

You might be wondering how you file tax returns with an ITIN. We shall tell you how in this blog.
ITIN 1

The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a crucial requirement for anyone who is not a US citizen, but needs to file taxes there with the IRS. It can be difficult to understand what is needed of you when you need to file taxes yourself with the use of an ITIN.

We have four registered Certifying Acceptance Agents at Woodcock Notary Public, so we can help you understand everything you need to know about ITINs. However, please note that we cannot help you file your taxes, we can only help you with your ITIN application. 

Our certification-only package includes but is limited to the following: authenticating your identity documents, making a certified copy of the said document, signing the W-7 Certificate of Accuracy (COA), and then countersigning the W-7 form.

You can read about how to apply for an ITIN on our webpage if you would like to learn more.

Filing US taxes with an ITIN

The due date for US tax returns is 15 April, so the best time to file your tax returns would be in the months prior. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to file your taxes and make sure everything is in order.

Additionally, you need to give yourself time to get an ITIN if you do not already have one, so you should ensure that you get our assistance with applying for an ITIN well in advance of the US tax season. This is even more important for making sure there is time to fix any issues that may arise during your application. 

The tax return process for US citizens, and non-citizens is more or less the same. There is only one real difference, which is the ITIN. US citizens will use their Social Security number (SSN), which US citizens apply for from the US government. However, for those who are not US citizens, they will use their ITIN. Both numbers are entered into the same field. This field will be labelled as ‘Social Security number’. 

Please note that people with ITINs do not get the same rights in the US as those with an SSN, such as access to Social Security benefits. 

Does an ITIN ever expire?

Generally, ITIN numbers do not expire unless specific circumstances have been met, as they are meant to be a permanent identification number for US taxpayers based in another country. 

Every now and then, the IRS have changed their rules to make it so there are different situations where numbers expire.

Cases where ITINs can expire currently include:

  • You have not used your number in three consecutive years
  • If your ITIN is from before 2013 and has never been renewed

If your number has expired, the IRS will inform you by email. After this, you will need to apply for a new one if you need to begin filing taxes in the US again. 

We will keep this section updated if the IRS release new updates to their rules in the future. 

What happens if my name changes?

When you apply for a renewal and your name has changed, just make sure that you include documents that prove your change of name. Otherwise, your application may be rejected if you apply with no proof of your name change. 

Can I claim tax credit?

If you are applying for a tax return with an ITIN, you are eligible for Child Tax Credit, and child and dependent tax credit. However, your child or dependents must first meet certain requirements for you to apply for tax credit. 

The requirements for Child Tax Credit:  

  • Under 17 at the end of the year
  • Be your child (can be adopted or a step-child), a grandchild, brother, sister, nephew, or niece
  • You provide half or more of their financial support
  • Lived with you for more than half the year
  • Be a US citizen, national, or a resident 
  • Be claimed as a dependant 


For child and dependent care credit, the requirements are: 

  • The child must have been under 13 when given care
  • Your spouse must have been incapable of caring for themselves and lived with your for half the year or more
  • Other dependants must have been incapable of self-care and lived with you for more than half a year

How we can help

If you have any questions, want more information, or need our help with an ITIN application, then get in touch with us today to talk to one of our Certifying Acceptance Agents and discuss our ITIN packages.

Additionally, visit our blog on how to use a CAA to claim US inheritance to learn more about the ITIN and ways in which we can help you. 

We also have a video on how to apply for an ITIN if you would like a convenient guide that takes you through the process that you will use if you use our services. 

Finally, read our FAQ for answers to some of the most common questions we have had, and see if anything there may be of use. If you cannot see your question on there, then please do not hesitate to get in touch.Â