What You Need to Know Post-Application Process of your ITIN/US Tax ID
Once you’ve submitted your Form W-7 and documents for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), here’s what to keep in mind:
📬 a) What happens after you apply for an ITIN?
Once the IRS receives your complete application, the ITIN office team works on a FIFO basis, First In First Out. For the first 6 weeks, your postal envelopes are not opened until the 7th week. So plan well in advance and be prepared for the wait time with patience.
🕒 Processing time: Around 7-11 weeks (may take longer during peak season).
How would I know my ITIN application is successful or Notification of approval:
If your application is successful based on the correct completion and all supporting documentation, and a passport copy of the applicant certified by the IRS certified acceptance agent [CAA], then the ITIN office team will issue Notice CP565A approval lette assigning the ITIN number, One of this notice will be mailed out to the applicant to the address listed on Form W7 – Line 2 [Mailing correspondence address] and one copy of the letter will be postal mailed to your Certified Acceptance Agent [CAA] who assisted with the submission process. For the benefits of using the IRS-approved acceptance agent, please refer to this earlier blog.
b) What if my ITIN application is not successful or rejected
If the ITIN application is not filled in accurately, or if correct supporting documentation is not enclosed or if the passport is not certified by IRS IRS-approved acceptance agent. Note: passport certification by notary or Apostille, or at the post office will not be accepted by the IRS office and will either lead to the issue of:
- Notice 566 – Requesting proper certification of passport or additional information within a specific timeline.
- Notice 567 – Rejection of ITIN application, and in this scenario, you will need to send in a new application.
c) What if I changed my address after applying?
You must notify the IRS of your new address by filing Form 8822 (Change of Address).This ensures all future correspondence, including your ITIN assignment notice, reaches you.
📌 Tip: Update as soon as possible to avoid delays or loss of documents.
d) What if I legally changed my name?
You must send a written statement to the IRS along with legal documentation showing your name change (e.g., marriage certificate or court order).
✉ Mail the update to:
IRS, Austin Service Center – ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342, USA
e) What if I lost my ITIN Assignment Notice (CP565)?
You can request a copy by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (U.S.)
If calling from abroad, use the international line: +1-267-941-1000
e) What if I now have a Social Security Number (SSN)?
Once you receive an SSN, you should stop using your ITIN.
Send a letter to the IRS with:
- Your legal name
- Your ITIN
- Your new SSN
- A copy of the SSN card
✉ Mail it to the address on your latest tax return or:
IRS, Austin Service Center – ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
🛑 Important: Using both ITIN and SSN may lead to duplicate tax records and unwanted notices from the IRS with penalties and other compliance issues, leading to unwanted stress. Simple fix, once you have an SSN, you should stop using an ITIN on all future correspondence with the IRS or Tax filing.
Conclusion:
An ITIN is a vital tool for non-residents looking to buy property, earn rental income, or comply with U.S. tax laws. Whether you’re applying for a mortgage, managing rental income, or handling property transactions, obtaining an ITIN ensures you meet IRS requirements and avoid penalties.
Our team specializes in ITIN applications, U.S. personal tax filings 1040/1040NR, and compliance for non-resident or foreign persons with USA-based income
If you need assistance with ITIN Renewal/US 1040 filing for refund claim/FATCA Compliance work/FBAR FINCEN114 Filing, ITIN/ Form W7 Application/E.I.N./Form W8BENE or Certified Acceptance Agents [C.A.A.] services/1040NR U.S. tax filing for refund claim of excess 1042S / 8288A/ 8805/ W2/ 1099. We are happy to assist our clients in a timely, efficient, and cost-effective way
