ITIN Services in Connecticut: 2025 Guide for Tax Filers

Filing taxes in the United States can be complicated if you are not eligible for a Social Security Number. That is where an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) comes in. Issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), this nine-digit taxpayer identification number (ITIN) allows individuals to meet their federal tax return obligations even if they cannot obtain an SSN. For many Connecticut residents, an ITIN is the key to complying with U.S. tax law.

ITINs are more than just a number. They allow you to report income, file federal and Connecticut tax returns, and sometimes claim refunds. They are also required when dependents must be listed on a return, when claiming certain treaty benefits, or when opening accounts at financial institutions. While an ITIN does not provide work authorization or access to Social Security benefits, it is still essential for individuals who must identify themselves for tax purposes.

This guide explains everything you need to know about ITIN services in Connecticut. You will learn who needs an ITIN, how the ITIN application process works, what documents are required, and how to renew an expired ITIN. We will also cover the role of Certified Acceptance Agents (CAAs), expected processing times, common problems, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you are applying for the first time or need to renew, this complete guide will help you take the proper steps with confidence.

What is an ITIN and Why Do You Need It?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is used strictly for tax purposes and allows individuals not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN) to comply with U.S. tax laws. An ITIN ensures that foreign nationals, dependents, and other applicants can file a federal tax return when required.

Primary Purposes of an ITIN

• File Federal and State Tax Returns: An ITIN allows individuals to meet their legal obligation to file both a federal income tax return and, if applicable, a Connecticut state return.
  
  
• Claim Refunds: Without a valid taxpayer identification number, taxpayers cannot receive refunds for overpaid taxes.
  
  
• Claim Dependents and Credits: Families can list dependents on their returns and may qualify for certain credits available to taxpayers using an ITIN.
  
  
• Access Treaty Benefits: Nonresident aliens can use an ITIN to apply treaty provisions that reduce or eliminate tax withholding.
  
  
• Meet Financial Requirements: Some banks and credit unions accept ITINs for account opening, which helps establish financial history.

Key Limitations of ITINs

• Not for Employment: An ITIN cannot authorize work in the United States.
  
  
• No Social Security Benefits: Unlike an SSN, an ITIN does not qualify individuals for Social Security benefits or related programs.
  
  
• Limited Use: The ITIN is strictly a taxpayer identification number (ITIN) and should not be confused with other forms of identification.

The IRS defines an ITIN as a tax-processing number for individuals who must comply with U.S. tax laws but are not eligible for an SSN. For more details, you can review the IRS explanation here: IRS ITIN Information.

Who Needs ITIN Services in Connecticut?

Many Connecticut residents who cannot obtain a Social Security Number may still need to file a federal tax return. The IRS provides these applicants the option to apply for an ITIN. Eligibility depends on your foreign status, type of income, or family situation. Below are the main groups that require ITIN services.

Nonresident Aliens and Foreign Nationals

Individuals with foreign status who earn U.S. income must report it, even without an SSN. This includes nonresident investors with U.S. portfolios, landlords who collect rental income, and business owners operating across borders. For these individuals, an ITIN ensures compliance and makes it possible to report income properly.

Foreign Students and Scholars

Connecticut hosts many international students, professors, and exchange scholars, particularly in Hartford, New Haven, and surrounding areas. These individuals often receive taxable stipends or grants. Schools and immigration services may recommend applying for an ITIN to meet IRS requirements. Having the correct address and documentation is essential when submitting your application.

Spouses and Dependents

U.S. taxpayers may need to claim spouses and dependents who do not qualify for an SSN. For example, mixed-status families in Bridgeport or Stamford often require ITINs for dependents to receive allowable credits. Each person listed on a tax return must obtain an ITIN with the proper supporting documents. The IRS list of supporting documentation for ITIN applications guides acceptable documents.

Connecticut’s Diverse Communities

Immigrant families and professionals across Fairfield County, Hartford, and New Haven frequently qualify for ITIN services. Proof of citizenship or foreign status and a valid address help ensure eligibility. By applying correctly, residents can avoid delays and remain compliant with state and federal tax requirements.

ITIN Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

The ITIN application process may seem overwhelming, but breaking it into steps makes it easier to follow. Applicants must confirm eligibility, prepare the required forms, and submit original supporting documents or certified copies. Below is a structured guide that outlines each stage of the process.

1. Determine Eligibility

Before you apply for an ITIN, you must confirm that you qualify. The IRS uses specific reason codes on Form W-7 to identify eligible candidates. Examples include a nonresident alien who must file a federal tax return, a dependent of a U.S. taxpayer, or a student with taxable scholarships. Reviewing these codes ensures your application matches the correct category.

2. Complete Form W-7

The ITIN application begins with filling out Form W-7. You must enter your full legal name, address, country of citizenship, date of birth, and reason for applying. If you have a visa, include the details exactly as issued. Be careful to use the same information shown on your documents, since inconsistencies can cause processing delays.

3. Gather Supporting Documentation

Applicants must provide supporting documentation that proves both identity and foreign status. A valid passport is the only document that can be used alone. If you do not have one, you must provide two or more documents, such as a driver’s license, a national ID card, or a birth certificate. Dependents may also need school records or medical records to prove residency.

4. Prepare Your Tax Return

Most first-time applicants must attach a completed federal tax return to the ITIN package. This shows the IRS that there is a tax purpose for the request. There are exceptions, such as individuals claiming treaty benefits or third-party withholding. Carefully review your circumstances before filing if you are uncertain about qualifying for an exception.

5. Submit the Application Package

The concluding step involves the application process. There are three ways you can submit your application:

1. Mail the completed Form W-7, your tax return, and original supporting documents or certified copies from the issuing agency.
   
   
2. Apply in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, where agents will review your paperwork and return your documents.
   
   
3. Work with a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA), who can authenticate your identity, help you submit certified copies, and assist with complex applications.

Following these steps carefully will reduce the chance of rejection and help ensure your ITIN is processed without unnecessary delays.

ITIN Renewal Requirements and Deadlines

An ITIN does not last indefinitely. Each number has an expiration date; if it is not used for three consecutive years, the IRS will consider it inactive. Many taxpayers discover the need for renewal during tax season, when they attempt to file and find that their ITIN has expired.

When ITINs Expire

• ITINs not used on a federal return for three consecutive years automatically expire.
  
  
• Numbers assigned before 2013 that have never been renewed must be updated.
  
  
• Each renewal cycle ends on December 31, the third consecutive non-use year.

Renewal Process

The renewal process is similar to the initial application. You must:

1. Complete Form W-7 and mark it as a renewal.
   
   
2. Provide updated supporting documents, such as a photo identification visa issued by a foreign authority or records issued by the U.S.
   
   
3. Be sure to verify your entry date into the country when needed.
   
   
4. You can submit the package through mail, the IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or a Certified Acceptance Agent.

The IRS will only accept documents issued by official agencies, and original paperwork or certified copies must be included.

Special Notes for Families and Dependents

• Dependents from Canada or Mexico may qualify for an ITIN under specific provisions but must submit acceptable proof of U.S. residency.
  
  
• Every applicant, including dependent children, must provide at least one supporting document with a clear photo to confirm identity.
  
  
• Younger dependents may be asked to present additional school or medical records to verify residency and eligibility.

Staying Informed

Applicants should contact the IRS if they are unsure about deadlines or documents. The agency often provides updates marked with a locked padlock icon on its secure website. The IRS typically reviews or updates renewal notices once a year, so taxpayers should carefully review them. A simple note on your calendar can help avoid delays when it is time to renew.

Supporting Documentation Requirements

When applying for an ITIN, you must include documents proving identity and foreign status. The IRS requires applicants to provide one valid passport or a combination of two or more documents. All documents must be originals or certified copies from the issuing agency and must be current at the time of submission.

General Standards for Documents

• Every document must be clear, legible, and in good condition.
  
  
• Documents must include the applicant’s full legal name and date of birth.
  
  
• If a document has an expiration date, it cannot be accepted if it has already expired.
  
  
• Certified copies are acceptable but must be obtained directly from the agency that created the original record.

Acceptable Documents by Category

*Foreign-issued only

Age-Specific Requirements

• Dependents under age six must provide a birth certificate and medical records showing the child’s name, date of birth, U.S. address, and the doctor’s or facility’s details.
  
  
• Dependents ages 6–17 must show school records that include attendance, grades, and address within the past 12 months. At least one supporting document must consist of a photo.
  
  
• Adults 18 and older should provide a valid passport whenever possible. If a passport is unavailable, they must provide two or more documents confirming identity and foreign status together.

Proper supporting documentation is essential for approval. Submitting incomplete or poor-quality records is one of the most common reasons an ITIN application is delayed or rejected.

Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) Services in Connecticut

A Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) is an individual or organization authorized by the IRS to help taxpayers complete the ITIN application process. CAAs are trained to review paperwork, authenticate documents, and assist applicants with submitting a complete package. Their role is especially valuable in Connecticut, where many applicants want to avoid mailing original supporting documents such as passports or birth certificates.

Role of a CAA

• A CAA can verify a person’s identity and foreign status directly, which reduces the need to send originals through the mail.
  
  
• They prepare a Certificate of Accuracy, confirming that the applicant’s documents were appropriately reviewed.
  
  
• CAAs can communicate with the IRS on behalf of applicants, providing updates and clarifying requests.

Benefits of Using a CAA

• Document Safety: By working with a CAA, applicants can avoid the risk of losing valuable identification. The CAA will return your documents immediately after review.
  
  
• Expert Guidance: CAAs are trained to recognize common mistakes, such as mismatched names, incorrect entry dates, or incomplete addresses. Their review can prevent rejections and delays.
  
  
• Efficient Processing: Since CAAs know precisely what the IRS will accept, applications submitted through them often have fewer errors and are processed more smoothly.

CAA Coverage in Connecticut

Connecticut has CAAs located throughout the state, including

• Fairfield County: Stamford, Norwalk, and Bridgeport
  
  
• Hartford County: Hartford, West Hartford, and New Britain
  
  
• New Haven County: New Haven, Waterbury, and Meriden

Applicants in smaller communities may also access nearby CAAs through local accounting firms and tax preparation offices.

Becoming a CAA

Tax professionals such as CPAs, enrolled agents, and attorneys can apply to become CAAs. The process involves completing IRS training, demonstrating knowledge of document authentication, and maintaining professional credentials. Once approved, these professionals can assist clients who need to apply for an ITIN, providing compliance support and convenience.

Using a CAA is not required, but it is often the most reliable option for applicants in Connecticut who want to protect essential records, reduce errors, and receive expert assistance throughout the ITIN process.

Processing Times and What to Expect for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number

The IRS usually processes an ITIN application within seven weeks, but the timeline can extend during busy tax season. Applicants who apply for an ITIN between January and April should expect nine to eleven weeks for completion. International applications often take an additional two to four weeks.

Standard Processing Times

• The IRS typically completes processing in about seven weeks during the regular season.
  
  
• When millions of federal tax return filings arrive in peak season, the timeline can stretch to nine to eleven weeks.
  
  
• International applications generally take two to four weeks longer than domestic submissions.

Factors That Affect Timing

• Processing can take longer if the application includes incomplete paperwork or documents that fail to prove identity and foreign status.
  
  
• Delays may occur when school records, medical records, or other dependent documentation do not meet IRS requirements.
  
  
• The IRS may request additional proof of U.S. residency if a dependent’s passport does not list an entry date.
  
  
• Applications that include copies not verified as official certified copies by the issuing agency are often returned.

IRS Notices

Applicants may receive one of three possible notices:

1. CP 565 confirms that the ITIN has been issued successfully.
   
   
2. CP 566 requests additional documentation to verify foreign status or identity.
   
   
3. CP 567 explains that the application was rejected due to ineligibility, duplicate submissions, or missing documents.

Key Reminders

An ITIN is issued only for federal tax purposes. It does not grant work authorization and cannot be used to access Social Security benefits. Applicants should plan because delays are common when incomplete forms or supporting records are missing. Submitting a complete and accurate package helps ensure faster approval.

Common Issues and Edge Cases When You Apply for an ITIN

Even when applicants follow instructions carefully, problems often arise during the ITIN application process. Understanding the most frequent challenges can help you avoid delays and improve your chances of approval. Below are common issues and specific edge cases that Connecticut residents may face when they apply for an ITIN.

Federal Tax Return Errors

• Many rejections happen because the attached federal tax return is incomplete, unsigned, or missing required forms.
  
  
• Applicants sometimes forget to include all dependents, leading to longer review times and additional IRS requests.

Problems Proving Foreign Status

• Delays often occur when documentation does not clearly confirm the applicant’s foreign status.
  
  
• Submitting documents that do not match the information on Form W-7, such as inconsistent names or birthdates, is a common cause of rejection.

Dependent Issues with School Records

• Younger dependents may be asked to provide school records as proof of residency.
  
  
• Delays occur when the records are outdated, incomplete, or do not include the child’s name and address.

Missing Entry Date Information

• The IRS may request additional documentation if a dependent’s passport does not include an entry date.
  
  
• This extra step can extend processing times significantly, particularly for families with multiple dependents.

Certified Copies and Document Quality

• Submitting uncertified photocopies or poor-quality scans instead of official certified copies is one of the most common mistakes.
  
  
• The IRS only accepts documents issued directly by the proper agency or provided through a Certified Acceptance Agent.

Verifying Identity and Foreign Status

• Each application must include documents that establish both identity and foreign status.
  
  
• Missing or unclear records often lead to IRS notices requesting further proof.

Social Security Confusion

• Some applicants mistakenly apply for an ITIN even though they may qualify for a Social Security number.
  
  
• The IRS requires proof that an applicant is ineligible for an SSN before issuing an ITIN.

Reapplication Strategies

• Review the rejection notice carefully and correct the exact issues noted by the IRS.
  
  
• Gather stronger documentation and ensure that all details match Form W-7.
  
  
• Consider professional assistance, especially if you have received multiple rejections.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is an ITIN valid?

An ITIN stays valid as long as it is used on a federal tax return at least once in three consecutive years. If it is not used within that period, it will expire. Numbers issued before 2013 that were never renewed also require reactivation. Renewal ensures that tax filings, refunds, and credits remain processed adequately without delays.

Can I use an ITIN for purposes other than taxes?

An ITIN is created only for federal tax reporting. It does not authorize employment, change immigration status, or qualify a person for Social Security benefits. However, some banks and state agencies may accept it as identification. Its primary purpose remains ensuring compliance with IRS rules so taxpayers without SSNs can file returns and meet tax obligations correctly.

What’s the difference between an ITIN and an SSN?

The Social Security Administration issues a Social Security number, allowing individuals to work legally and earn retirement benefits. An ITIN, issued by the IRS, is solely for tax purposes, such as filing a federal tax return. It helps foreign nationals, dependents, and others without SSNs comply with U.S. tax law but does not authorize employment.

Can my family members apply for ITINs together?

Yes, families may apply for an ITIN for multiple members simultaneously. Each applicant must complete their Form W-7 and provide proper documentation. All applications can be submitted together with a single federal tax return. This approach often reduces delays because the IRS can review all related information and supporting materials in one coordinated package.

What happens if I get an SSN after receiving an ITIN?

Once you are issued a Social Security number, you must stop using your ITIN. All future returns should use the SSN. The IRS will combine your records so your federal tax history remains accurate. You do not need to cancel the ITIN separately but must ensure you update your personal details with the IRS.

Do I need to renew my ITIN if I don’t file taxes?

You may not need to renew immediately if your ITIN is only reported on information returns, such as Forms 1099. Renewal becomes necessary when you need to file your federal tax return. Dependents and spouses listed on returns also require valid ITINs. Renewing before tax season prevents unnecessary delays with processing, credits, or refund claims.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Navigating the ITIN process can feel complicated, but it is essential for Connecticut residents who must stay compliant with state and federal requirements. An ITIN allows individuals without a Social Security number to file a federal tax return, claim dependents, and meet obligations under U.S. law. It also helps families and professionals demonstrate eligibility for certain tax benefits.

If you are preparing to move forward, here are the steps you should follow:

• For first-time applicants: Confirm your eligibility, complete Form W-7, and submit original records or certified copies from the issuing agency.
  
  
• For renewal applicants: Check the expiration date of your ITIN and submit renewal paperwork before tax season to prevent delays.
  
  
• For families with dependents: Be prepared to provide school records or medical documentation to verify residency.
  
  
• For those seeking help: Work with a Certified Acceptance Agent or visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center to keep documents safe and reduce mistakes.

If you receive an IRS notice or have specific questions, do not hesitate to contact a qualified professional. Taking these steps ensures smoother processing and accurate filing.