FAQ
Short answers to common ITIN application, document, processing, and after-approval questions.
What documents do I need before starting?
Usually start with a valid passport, clear passport photos or scans, foreign residential address, contact information, and any tax or application-reason documents you already have.
Do I need to mail my original passport?
Usually no. As a CAA-supported service, we review passport materials and prepare the application package without asking most customers to mail the original passport to the IRS.
Can I apply if I live outside the United States?
Yes. Many customers apply from outside the U.S. You generally need a valid passport and a real U.S. tax reason for needing an ITIN.
How long does IRS processing usually take?
After the complete package is mailed to the IRS, processing commonly takes about 7 to 11 weeks, depending on season, IRS workload, mailing route, and case complexity.
How do I check my ITIN status?
First check the IRS processing timeline. If the normal window has passed, the applicant can call the IRS ITIN phone line and verify identity to ask about status.
What happens after my ITIN is approved?
The IRS issues a CP565 notice. If the notice is received through our mailing process, we scan and send it to you, then you should check the name, date of birth, and ITIN number.
What if I need the original CP565 notice mailed to my own address?
You can call the IRS and request that the CP565 notice be reissued or resent to your mailing address. The IRS may verify your identity and address during the call.
What if the name or date of birth on my ITIN is wrong?
The applicant usually needs to call the IRS personally. Third parties generally cannot complete name or birthdate corrections because the IRS requires identity verification.
Does my ITIN expire or need renewal?
An ITIN may need renewal if it has not been used on a federal tax return for several years or if the IRS marks it inactive. Check before using it on a new tax filing.
Can I use tax software after receiving an ITIN?
It depends on whether you are filing Form 1040 or 1040-NR, whether the ITIN is already valid, and whether this is a first-time ITIN application or renewal with a tax return.
What if my ITIN application is rejected or returned?
Do not assume the case is over. Rejections often relate to passport verification, application reason, signature, missing materials, or IRS processing errors. Review the notice and prepare a response.
When should I contact support instead of using the docs?
Contact support if your case involves unusual tax documents, name differences, expired documents, an IRS notice, rejection, missing CP565 notice, or uncertainty about your application reason.