I am applying for ITIN numbers for my 3 kids as dependent. I want to know whether I have to send my passport (J1) with my kids passports (original)?

It depends.  According to this IRS link, you can send in a certified copy of your passports. You should visit an approved passport service or Embassy to certify your passports. As far as you submitting your passport, only do this if you are instructed to send it by the IRS.

Thank you very much for your answer.

I am in Upper Peninsula, MI and there is no certification office or IRS office near me (4.5 h drive to nearest IRS office). So I have to send original passport of my kids. I want to know whether

1. Do I have to provide my original passport with the application since kids are my dependent.

2. Do I need to send my and my kids visa form (DS-2019 form)?

Can you please help me in this regard. I called IRS office, but due to high call volume, not connected.

Thanks in advance

Please read this IRS link for acceptable documents to send in with your application. it mentions instead of sending original documents, you may also choose instead to submit certified copies from the issuing agency instead. Also you can check this document for a list of acceptable documents. I do see that a visa issued by the Department of State can be used to establish foreign status and identity but the Passport is the only standalone document that can be used for both identity and foreign status. 

I have also researched this link, that is the revised application standards.it states A passport is the only document that proves both identity and foreign status.  For dependents, the passport must have a date of entry to be a stand-alone document, unless the dependent is from Military Overseas. If a passport is submitted, a combination of two or more documents must be submitted to meet the document requirements.

Thank you very much your detailed reply. I read through these page and also read the W-7 instructions. They mentioned to submit the original passport for my dependent (don't have a certifying agency nearby). I had a doubt of sending my original passport. Bu I can't find anywhere mentioning about the submission of J1-passport (mine). So I will go with the passport of my dependent and the tax documents.

Thank you very much for your help.