How to Check if Your ITIN is Still Active

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but do not have and are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN). This number enables individuals to file federal tax returns and claim eligible tax benefits. Maintaining an active ITIN is important to ensure smooth processing of tax documents and to avoid potential delays or issues with tax refunds.

Methods for Checking ITIN Status

The most common way to confirm your ITIN’s active status is through the tax filing process. When you file a federal income tax return, the IRS will process it normally if your ITIN is active. If your ITIN has expired or is inactive, the IRS typically sends a notice to inform you of the status.

For a direct inquiry, you can contact the IRS by phone. The IRS toll-free number for ITIN inquiries is 1-800-829-1040, available Monday through Friday. When calling, be prepared to provide your name, date of birth, mailing address, and the ITIN itself to allow the representative to verify your identity and provide status information. Phone inquiries or receipt of an IRS notice are the primary methods for status verification.

Understanding ITIN Expiration and Deactivation

Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers can expire or be deactivated for several reasons. A common cause is non-use: an ITIN will expire on December 31 of the third consecutive tax year if it has not been used on a federal income tax return.

Additionally, certain ITINs issued before 2013 expired in batches, based on the middle digits of the number. For instance, ITINs with certain middle digits (e.g., 78, 79) have expired on a rolling basis. The IRS also deactivates ITINs if the individual obtains an SSN or if there are instances of fraudulent activity. Using an expired ITIN on a tax return can lead to processing delays for your return and may prevent you from claiming certain tax credits, such as the Child Tax Credit.

Steps to Renew or Reactivate an ITIN

If your ITIN has expired and you need to file a U.S. federal tax return or claim tax benefits, you must renew it. The renewal process involves completing and submitting Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. When filling out Form W-7 for renewal, you must check the “Renew an Existing ITIN” box at the top of the form.

You will need to include supporting documentation that proves your foreign status and identity, such as a passport or national identity card. These documents should be original or certified copies from the issuing agency.

You can submit your Form W-7 and supporting documents through several methods: by mail to the IRS ITIN Operation P.O. Box in Austin, TX, or via private delivery service to their physical address in Austin. Alternatively, you can schedule an appointment at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) to submit your application in person, where employees can review and authenticate your original documents. Another option is to use an IRS Authorized Acceptance Agent, who can help with the application and certify your original documents, eliminating the need to mail them to the IRS. The processing time for ITIN renewal applications typically ranges from 7 to 11 weeks. After submission, the IRS will return your original documents and send a notice confirming the ITIN’s assignment or renewal.