Can I use a temporary ITIN number?

[RalphH1 · Accepted solution]

Unfortunately, there are no temporary “Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers.” There are temporary numbers called “ATINs” (described here), but they’re specifically for adoption situations (which you didn’t mention, but there’s the info just in case!).

Otherwise, if you need a number because you’re a nonresident (or your spouse or dependent is), you must apply with Form W-7, There are different ways to do it (as the IRS says here), depending on your time frame and concerns about your ID documents being out of your possession. But your application always accompanies a paper tax return, unless you meet one of the exceptions, described here. (In the Social Security field of the return, write “APPLIED,” as discussed in the Community here.)

@musammatyasmin19, if you’re doing this, you’ll want to be on top of the details, as the IRS can be very picky with the W-7s!  Our Community is here if you have questions along the way...