Understanding U.S. taxes poses a challenge for many foreign national investors and even international students studying in the country. The difficulty stems from the fact that they must apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
They need this unique nine-digit code if they do not possess a Social Security Number (SSN) but require a U.S. tax return listing. The same applies when they intend to submit a tax return.
Unfortunately, most of them do not understand the workflow regarding the timeline and face unnecessary setbacks as a result of common mistakes and procedural complications.
This article will provide you with all the information on the IRS ITIN Processing Time and Common Delays.
What is an ITIN?
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is an IRS-issued number for taxpayers who do not receive Social Security Numbers from the Social Security Administration.
Primarily, ITIN is used for:
- Non-resident aliens who are obliged to file a tax return in the U.S.
- Resident aliens of the U.S. (based on the days spent in the U.S.) who are filing a tax return.
- Dependents or spouses of U.S. citizens or resident aliens.
- Dependents or spouses of holders of non-resident visas.
- Foreign nationals making purchases of U.S. LLCs or real estate.
It’s crucial to note that an ITIN does not grant employment authorization in the United States, eligibility for Social Security benefits, or even immigration status. ITINs only exist to make sure that taxpayers are by the tax laws in the United States.
Standard ITIN Processing Time
Once the IRS gets an ITIN application with Form W-7 with all the necessary supporting documents, one of the standard processing times is cited to range between seven to eleven weeks. Due to other factors, this timeline does seem to change.
Estimated Timeline Overview:
| Stage | Estimated Duration |
| Application receipt and intake | 1–2 weeks |
| Document review and verification | 3–6 weeks |
| ITIN issuance or rejection notice | 1–3 weeks |
| Total | 7–11 weeks |
The most notable change happens during tax filing season, which ranges from January to April. During that time, people experience longer wait times between 12 to 15 weeks.
Also, international applicants are bound to experience longer wait times because of mail delivery and document verification issues.
For applicants using the services of a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA), the timeline is faster since the IRS tends to trust these CAAs to submit all documents in the proper format.
Common Reasons for Your ITIN Application Delay
Even though getting your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) might seem simple, some common errors can delay your application, which can make matters worse if not taken care of. Let’s discuss these common mistakes.
1. Errors and Missing Information on W-7 Form
The W-7 form is a key component of your application. Missing fields like birth information, addresses, or certain selection tabs are a recipe for rejection.
Furthermore, missing endorsements accompanied by signing can result in providing inconsistent information, rejection. These are the common mistakes made:
- Not filling out areas such as foreign address or birth information.
- Failing to sign or date the document.
- Choosing the wrong tabs.
- Providing a name not supported by valid documentation.
Avoid all these issues by personalizing your submission with supporting valid documents as well as verifying every input provided beforehand.
2. Not Sufficient Supporting Documents or Absences
The IRS mandates:
- Original documents or,
- Certified (not notarized) copies from the issuing agency
Acceptable documents for submission consist of the following:
- Valid passport (single issued document accepted on its own)
- National ID card
- Foreign-issued birth certificates (especially for those claiming dependents)
- Visa issued by the Department of State (U.S.)
Other reasons for delays that often occur include:
- Expired documents
- Documents not in the English language and no accompanying translation are provided
- Submissions of photocopies or notarized copies instead of documents certified by the issuing agency.
3. Peak Tax Season Timing
From January up until April, the IRS is bombarded with millions of tax submissions, which lengthens the time needed to process them. For quicker processing times, consider applying before or after this period.
4. International Delays and Mailing Issues
If you intend to mail your ITIN application while outside the United States, customs inspections and postal delays can severely impact the time of delivery. Requiring resubmission if documents are either misplaced or damaged during transit.
- To avoid this, consider:
- Using tracked courier services (FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc)
5. Not Adding A Federal Tax Return
In most cases, you will be required to attach a valid U.S. federal tax return, such as Form 1040-NR or Form 1040, unless you qualify under one of the exceptions noted in the Form W-7 instructions. Any applications filed without a return when an exception does not apply will be rejected.
Remember that the tax return must:
- Be signed and dated
- Be complete with necessary attachments or schedules
- Be prepared by a taxing officer when applicable
Steps to Follow for ITIN Application Processing
To help expedite the application process, these suggestions can be helpful:
✅ 1. Ensure Each Field is Completed Correctly
All spelling must be correct, the reason for applying must be provided, and all dates and addresses must be accurate, along with all unlock field boxes.
Complete your Form W-7 carefully, ensuring every section is filled in. As you complete your Form W-7, every single field should be filled and spelled correctly, including your reason for applying, dates, and addresses.
✅ 2. Include The Correct Supporting Documents
Put forward original and unexpired documents or certified ones that are current. Translations must be included for any foreign written documents, and sufficient qualifications must be included.
✅ 3. Attach a Federal Tax Return (when applicable)
Remember to add your federal tax return unless you qualify for one of the exceptions mentioned. This is one of the most frequent grounds for rejection of the application.
✅ 4. Make the application early
Make the application long before the tax assessment deadlines. Applying early gives you a favorable window for making corrections or resubmissions, if required.
✅ 5. Employ the services of a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA)
Collaborating with a CAA reduces mistakes considerably and also eliminates the need to send original documents to the IRS. Many CAAs have virtual appointments, which speed up the process and make it more secure.
How can you verify the progress of your ITIN application
If you submitted your ITIN application and have yet to receive a response in over 11 weeks, you can verify its status by getting in touch with the IRS:
- U.S. residents: Call 1-800-829-1040.
- Outside the U.S.: Call 1-267-941-1000 (this is not toll-free)
Be ready with the following details:
- Your full name as it appears on the application.
- Mailing Address.
- Date of Birth.
- W-7 Form copy (if available).
Additionally, if you applied through a CAA, they might be able to check the status on your behalf.
Final Thoughts
With as many details that need to be dealt with, getting an ITIN is an extreme layer of a headache for non-residents and foreign investors trying to rush and comply with US tax compliance laws. The process may initially seem simple, but there are many common delays, especially during tax season or if issues arise with the submitted documentation.
Filing an accurate and complete application while understanding the regular processing timeline is essential to ensure faster approval. From first-time applicants to those looking to renew an expired ITIN or claim dependents, everything can be solved with proper foresight and preplanning.
If you don’t know where to begin or need help from a professional, EasyFiling simplifies the process for you. We offer full-service ITIN application services with Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) services and tax return preparation support.
Looking for help with filing your ITIN?
EasyFiling’s experts will assist you.
👉 Contact us today to get started!
Swostika Silwal
