Let's be real - tax stuff is confusing enough without adding language barriers. When I first needed an ITIN, I spent hours searching "como sacar el itin number por internet" only to find outdated info or vague instructions. After helping dozens of friends navigate this, here's everything I wish I'd known.
What Exactly is an ITIN Number?
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a nine-digit tax ID for people who can't get a Social Security Number but need to file US taxes. Think of it like a tax passport:
| Who Needs It | Who Doesn't |
|---|---|
| Non-resident aliens filing US taxes | US citizens/green card holders (use SSN) |
| Spouses/dependents of visa holders | People not required to file US taxes |
| Foreign investors receiving US income | Those eligible for SSN (apply for that instead!) |
Key takeaway: Many folks searching "como sacar el itin number por internet" actually need an SSN. If you have work authorization, stop right now and apply for a Social Security Number instead.
Can You Really Get ITIN Online?
Here's where it gets messy. Technically, there's no direct "como sacar el itin number por internet" button on IRS.gov. But you can complete 90% online if you know these workarounds:
The Practical Online Path
- Step 1: Download Form W-7 from IRS.gov (the official application)
- Step 2: Use IRS-approved Acceptance Agents who verify documents online
- Step 3: Submit everything through their secure portals
Last year, I tried mailing documents first. Big mistake - it took 14 weeks and they rejected it over a tiny signature issue. When I used an Acceptance Agent, I had my ITIN in 6 weeks.
Required Documents Checklist
The #1 reason applications get rejected? Bad documents. Here's exactly what works:
| Document Type | Acceptable Formats | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport (most common) | Original or certified copy | Must have photo and entry stamp/page |
| National ID Card | Original only | Must contain photo, DOB, expiration date |
| Foreign Driver's License | Not accepted alone | Requires secondary ID like birth certificate |
⚠️ Warning: Photocopies won't work unless certified. I learned this the hard way when my Colombian ID got rejected. Find an IRS-certified notary who understands international documents.
Step-by-Step Walkthrough
Preparing Your Application
Grab the latest Form W-7 (direct IRS link). Skip Adobe Reader - the IRS form works better with Foxit Reader. Fill out:
- Line 1: Full legal name (match your passport exactly)
- Line 3: Current US address (they'll mail your number here)
- Line 4: Reason for applying (check Box B for most filers)
Why did my first application fail? I used my nickname "Javi" instead of "Javier" on Line 1. Don't be like me.
Using Acceptance Agents
These authorized intermediaries are the closest thing to "como sacar el itin number por internet". Search IRS certified agents by ZIP code. Expect:
| Service Type | Average Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Basic document verification | $50-$100 | Adds 1 week |
| Full application handling | $150-$300 | Same as mailing |
Pro tip: Agents near border cities like El Paso or San Diego often have Spanish-speaking staff familiar with Latin American documents.
Submitting Your Application
Whether mailing or using an agent, always include:
- Completed Form W-7
- Original/certified ID documents
- Tax return if applying with one (Form 1040)
- Pre-paid return envelope for document retrieval
📌 Document safety hack: Write "COPY - DO NOT PROCESS" diagonally across documents in yellow highlighter. This prevents fraud if lost.
Processing Timelines & Tracking
Patience is key. Current IRS processing times:
| Application Period | Average Wait | Peak Delays |
|---|---|---|
| January - April | 10-12 weeks | Tax season backlog |
| May - December | 6-8 weeks | Fewer delays |
Track your status by calling (800) 908-9982. Have ready:
- Full name and DOB
- Mailing address used on application
- Approximate submission date
Common Mistakes to Avoid
After seeing hundreds rejected, these errors make me cringe:
Signature Issues
Must be wet ink signature - digital signatures automatically rejected. Sign inside the box on Page 1 and Page 5 (everyone misses Page 5!).
Document Problems
- Expired passports (must be current)
- Damaged IDs with unreadable photos
- Birth certificates without certified translations
Address Confusion
The IRS only mails to US addresses. If you're abroad, use a trusted relative's address or private mailbox service.
Your ITIN Questions Answered
¿Puedo usar mi ITIN para trabajar?
Sadly no. An ITIN doesn't authorize employment. I've seen folks get deported for this misunderstanding. Employers require SSN.
¿Cuánto cuesta obtener un ITIN?
IRS processing is free. But document certification typically costs $15-$50 per document depending on location.
¿Se puede sacar el ITIN number por internet sin pasaporte?
Possible but extremely difficult. Requires two original IDs like national ID + birth certificate + foreign driver's license. Passport is easiest.
¿Puedo aplicar para mi esposa e hijos en la misma solicitud?
Yes! File one Form W-7 per person, but mail all together with a cover sheet listing all applicants.
After You Get Your ITIN
Treat that number like gold. You'll need it for:
- Tax filing every year (even with $0 income)
- Opening interest-bearing bank accounts
- Applying for certain mortgages
- Claiming tax treaty benefits
⚠️ Critical reminder: ITINs expire if not used on a tax return for 3 consecutive years. Mark your calendar to file even a $0 return to keep it active.
| When to Renew | How to Renew | Documents Needed |
|---|---|---|
| If expiring (check first digit) | Simplified Form W-7 | Only proof of identity |
| After legal name change | Full new application | Supporting court documents |
Scam Warning Signs
When researching "como sacar el itin number por internet", I encountered countless scams. Red flags:
| Scam Tactic | How to Spot |
|---|---|
| "Instant ITIN" services | Real processing takes weeks |
| Upfront fees over $300 | Legit agents charge under $150 |
| Requests for payment via gift cards | IRS never accepts these |
Last month, my cousin almost paid $500 to a fake "online IRS portal". Remember: The only official sites are IRS.gov and certified acceptance agents.
Better Than Online? Local Options
Sometimes the fastest "como sacar el itin number por internet" alternative is in person:
- IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers: Walk-in appointments at designated locations
- Free VITA/TCE clinics: Volunteer tax preparers help with ITIN applications
I helped at a VITA clinic in McAllen, TX last April. We processed 37 ITIN applications in one week with zero rejections. Check VITA locations for free help.
Special Situations
For Deceased Taxpayers
Estates sometimes need ITINs for final returns. Submit with:
- Certified death certificate
- Court appointment documents for executor
Minor Children
Both parents must sign Form W-7 or provide notarized consent. School IDs aren't accepted - use passports or birth certificates.
Final Reality Check
Look - the process isn't fun. When people ask me "como sacar el itin number por internet", I tell them straight:
"It's 70% paperwork, 30% waiting. But doing it right saves months of headaches. Double-check documents, use certified copies where required, and never pay for 'expedited service' scams."
The IRS processed 2.3 million ITIN applications last year. Yours will likely be approved if you follow these steps precisely. What questions do you still have?
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