What is this service?
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a number the IRS issues to people who must meet U.S. tax obligations and cannot get a Social Security number.
It is requested with Form W‑7, usually together with a federal tax return. An ITIN is only for tax purposes: it does not authorize work or change your immigration status.
Who may need it?
- People who do not qualify for a Social Security number and must file a federal return.
- Spouses and dependents included on a return who cannot get a Social Security number, when the IRS rules allow it.
- People with an expired ITIN who will use it on a return.
How is Form W‑7 submitted?
Form W‑7 goes with documents that prove your identity and foreign status; a passport is the only document that works on its own. Documents must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.
There are three ways to submit it:
- By mail to the IRS, with the original documents or certified copies. The IRS returns them by mail.
- In person, by appointment, at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
- Through a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), who can verify some documents without sending them to the IRS.
Ge Chanfon Services is not a Certifying Acceptance Agent: we prepare your W‑7 and your return, and explain how to submit them by mail or in person.
ITIN renewal
An ITIN expires if it is not used on a federal return for 3 years in a row; it expires on December 31 of the third year. If you will use it on a return, you must renew it with Form W‑7.
If you file with an expired ITIN, your return may be delayed and some credits may not be allowed.
What documents may you need?
- Valid passport, original or a copy certified by the issuing agency.
- If you do not have a passport, other identity and foreign status documents the IRS accepts (we tell you which).
- For dependents: proof of U.S. residency, such as school or medical records, when the IRS requires it.
- Prior ITIN letter or number, if renewing.
- Marriage certificate or court order, if your name changed.
- Income documents for the year for the tax return.
Not every document on this list is needed for every taxpayer. After you request the service, we will send you a questionnaire and a personalized list based on your situation. Please do not send Social Security numbers, ITINs, or documents through the form on this page.
How does our service work?
- Request the service.Fill out the form on this page.
- Receive the questionnaire.We email you a questionnaire in Spanish and the list of documents.
- Send your information.Send back the questionnaire with copies of your documents. Do not email us original documents.
- We prepare Form W‑7 and the return.We prepare each person's W‑7 and the return, and explain how to submit them with your original documents or certified copies.
- Review and approval.You review and approve what we prepare before it is filed, signing Form 8879 when it is e-filed and applicable.
We prepare everything with the information and documents you give us. We do not promise refunds, credits, or results: the IRS decides them or, for state returns, the tax agency of the state involved.
Costs
Our fees
Payments to the IRS
The IRS does not charge for an ITIN. If your return shows a balance due, that payment goes directly to the IRS and is not part of our fees.
Frequently asked questions
Do you certify my documents?
No. Ge Chanfon Services is not a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA). We prepare your W‑7 and your return, and you submit your original documents or certified copies by mail, in person at the IRS, or through a Certifying Acceptance Agent.
Do I have to file a return with Form W‑7?
Generally, yes: Form W‑7 goes with a federal tax return, except in the exceptions the IRS lists.
Does an ITIN allow me to work?
No. An ITIN is only for tax purposes. It does not authorize work or change your immigration status.
How long does an ITIN take?
The IRS says about 7 weeks to receive the notice, and 9 to 11 weeks during tax season or when applying from abroad.
Ge Chanfon Services LLC provides document preparation and administrative assistance services. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. Approval of any application is decided by the appropriate government agency.