Can I apply for an ITIN by myself, without a service or tax professional?
Yes, you can. There are even some guides online to help you. However, IRS forms are somewhat complicated and confusing. You may not know how to fill out the ITIN form or which documents you need to submit. Filling out the ITIN form incorrectly may result in delay or rejection of the application.
If you would like to apply on your own, you need to complete Form W-7 and send your original passport/document(s) or a certified copy of the same to the IRS. The process may take 8-12 weeks. Alternatively, you can apply for ITIN with an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) in person in the United States. You need to schedule an appointment and bring your passport and completed Form W-7 to the TAC.
If you need an expert on this complicated process, there are several companies which offer services to simplify the process. We recommend Frugal Flyer’s ITIN service if you are looking for the most cost-effective process. They will provide you with a Form W-7, 1040 NR and instructions for mailing. You will be responsible for mailing the application and attaching your identification documents yourself.
Alternatively, ITIN Genie is a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA), which means we can certify your identity documents as legitimate and create copies of them to provide to the IRS. We also handle the mailing of the application and can represent you in communications with the IRS should any issues arise. Learn more about our services here.