ITIN Guide
ITIN vs SSN Guide
An ITIN is for tax purposes only (no work authorization). An SSN provides work authorization and Social Security benefits. You cannot have both simultaneously.
Comparison
ITIN vs SSN: Side-by-Side
| Factor | ITIN | SSN | |--------|------|-----| | Full Name | Individual Taxpayer Identification Number | Social Security Number | | Format | 9XX-XX-XXXX | XXX-XX-XXXX | | Issued By | IRS | Social Security Administration | | Work Authorization | No | Yes | | Social Security Benefits | No | Yes | | Tax Filing | Yes | Yes | | Bank Accounts | Some banks | All banks | | Expires? | After 3 years non-use | No | | Can Have Both? | No | No | | Application | Form W-7 | Form SS-5 |
Key Difference
The Core Difference
An SSN is a multi-purpose identifier: tax filing, work authorization, Social Security benefits, credit history, identity verification. It is available only to US citizens and authorized residents.
An ITIN is a single-purpose identifier: federal tax filing only. It is available to anyone who needs a US tax ID but cannot get an SSN.
If you later become eligible for an SSN, the IRS rescinds your ITIN and transfers your tax records to your new SSN.
Related
Which Do You Need?
| Situation | Number | |-----------|--------| | US citizen | SSN | | Authorized to work in US | SSN | | Non-resident with US income | ITIN | | Non-resident with US LLC | EIN (business) + possibly ITIN (personal) |
Related: EIN vs SSN | EIN vs ITIN | ITIN number
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ITIN the same as SSN?
No. An ITIN is for tax purposes only. An SSN provides work authorization and Social Security benefits. Different issuers, different purposes.
Can I work with an ITIN?
No. An ITIN does not authorize employment. Only an SSN or Employment Authorization Document permits work in the US.
Can I have both ITIN and SSN?
No. If you obtain an SSN, your ITIN is rescinded. The IRS transfers your tax records to the SSN.
Which one do non-residents need?
Non-residents with US income need an ITIN for personal tax filing. If they also have a US business, they need an EIN for the business.
Does ITIN affect immigration?
No. An ITIN does not affect immigration status, provide legal presence, or serve as identification for non-tax purposes.
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