Tips for Filing a W7

Form W-7 is a form provided by the Internal Revenue Service that allows nonresident or resident aliens to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers are used to identify persons that do not have or qualify for a Social Security number, when filing tax returns. Persons may obtain the W-7 form and completion instructions in Spanish or English from online sources,official acceptance agent or from an authorized Taxpayer Assistance Center.

Navigate to the IRS.gov website and download the current W-7 form and instructions.

Read the Instructions for Form W-7 to ensure you qualify for an ITIN. The IRS defines resident aliens as individuals that hold a "green card" or have resided in the U.S. for at least 31 days during the tax year, or 183 days or more during the past three years; nonresident aliens are typically individuals that possess a "J-1" or "F-1" visa, issued by the Federal government and who do not qualify for resident alien status.

Complete each highlighted field within the W-7 form that applies to your particular situation. Click on the relevant highlighted areas to edit the fields. You may also print out the blank form and enter the information by hand.

Click on the "Print" icon and print out the completed W-7 form.

Gather the required supporting documentation to apply for an ITIN. The IRS requires a copy of your current passport, or two other official documents such as current school records, civil birth certificate, national I.D., student visa, U.S. or foreign driver's and/or USCIS photo identification license.

Mail the completed form and required documentation to the address listed within the "Instructions for Form W-7." Keep in mind that response from the IRS or issuance of an ITIN may take several weeks, depending upon the agency's current workload.