Can I apply for an ITIN online?
The quick answer is no.
The IRS is still old school and requires all ITIN applications to be mailed. However, they are currently working on modernizing the system, so hopefully in the future, people will be able to submit their ITIN applications electronically like they can their tax returns.
In the meantime, be cautious of websites that promise an online ITIN application. Most of these websites do not assist you in filling out the W7 application. They just ask you the same questions that the form does, make you fill it out yourself, charge you money, and then give you a pdf version to print. You are then still responsible for preparing your tax return, ensuring the form is correctly filled out, and submitting original documents to the IRS.
If you want professionals to help you fill out and submit your ITIN application, from the tax return to the identification documents, work with a tax professional instead of a random website.
We make sure that your tax return, application, and documents are correct, so your application is not rejected for an avoidable error. A rejected application means starting over and waiting again.
If you want professional help with your application, call us at (612) 440-3988.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice. Tax rules and amounts change every year; ask a professional about your situation.
