How to get your ITIN for Foreigners

Are you a foreigner looking to buy real estate in Orange County? You will need an ITIN or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

In order to own a home in the US, you are required to obtain either an individual tax payer identification number or a social security number. Those who are not eligible to receive an SSN can apply for a ITIN by completing IRS Form W-7. The ITIN number will serve as your valid tax identification.

How do I apply for an ITIN?
Use the latest revision of Form W-7, “Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to apply“. Attach a valid federal income tax return, unless you qualify for an exception, and include your original proof of identity or copies certified by issuing agency and foreign status documents. For more instructions please visit the IRS website.

You may also apply using the services of an IRS-authorized Acceptance Agent or visit some key IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center in lieu of mailing your information to the IRS in Austin. Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs) in the United States provide in-person help with ITIN applications on a walk-in or appointment basis.

When should I apply for an ITIN?
You must apply for either a SSN or ITIN as soon as possible; because they will help you open up a US bank account for making a real estate purchase and seeking finance for the payments. There are always certain risks and challenges associated with real estate transactions; however, you can avoid major problems by appropriately preparing yourself for buying a home in Orange County as a foreigner. In order to make your property search and buying process smoother, make sure you have obtained an ITIN or a SSN and establish a US bank account. For more information about the purchasing process please click here.

You can apply for an ITIN any time during the year. However, if the tax return you attach to Form W-7 is filed after the return’s due date, you may owe interest and/or penalties. You should file your current year return by the prescribed due date to avoid this situation.

How and when can I expect to receive my ITIN?
If you qualify for an ITIN and your application is complete, you will receive a letter from the IRS assigning your tax identification number usually within seven weeks.

For more instructions and all the latest forms and information please visit www.irs.gov or call the IRS toll-free number at 1-800-829-1040 if you are in the United States. If you are outside the United States, call 267-941-1000 (not a toll-free number).

About Jaleesa Peluso, Orange County Real Estate Agent
Jaleesa and her real estate team specialize in Orange County real estate. We serve all buyers and sellers in all of South Orange County, including: Dana Point, Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Niguel, Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Lake Forest, Aliso Viejo and San Clemente. Thinking of making a move in to Orange County? Call us now at (949)395-0960!

This information is provided solely as a courtesy by Jaleesa Peluso, Laguna Beach Realtor. It is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. We recommend that you speak with a Certified Public Accountant for all tax matters. Laws, Rules and Regulations may change without notice.