SSN or ITIN: which number you need
The two US tax ID numbers, who can get each one, and what each one lets you do.
3 min read
Almost every money task in the US asks for a tax ID number. There are two kinds. Which one you can get depends mostly on whether you are allowed to work in the US.
Social Security Number (SSN)
The Social Security Administration gives SSNs to US citizens, permanent residents, and people allowed to work. If you can get one, get one. Employers, banks and credit bureaus all expect it.
Apply at ssa.gov. It is free. Anyone who charges you to get an SSN is not helping you.
Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
The IRS gives ITINs to people who must pay US tax but can't get an SSN. An ITIN lets you file and pay taxes. Apply with IRS Form W-7, usually together with your tax return.
An ITIN is only a tax number. It does not let you work. It does not change your immigration status. It does not give you Social Security benefits. It can also expire if you don't use it for a few years.
What each number lets you do
| SSN | ITIN | |
|---|---|---|
| Work for an employer | ||
| File a tax return | ||
| Open a bank account | At many banks | |
| Build a credit history | ||
| Get any credit card or loan | Fewer choices | |
| Get Social Security benefits |
Get free help if your case is complicated
Tax rules and immigration rules affect each other. A mistake can cost more than money. VITA sites give free tax help, often in your language. Most cities also have nonprofit immigration legal services approved by the government.
This is general information, not tax or immigration advice.