If you live, work, or invest in the United States, chances are you’ve come across the terms SSN or ITIN. These are two key identification numbers used in the U.S., and they play a crucial role for anyone—citizen, resident, or otherwise—looking to access credit, financial services, or even just file taxes.
Both numbers are issued by the U.S. government for tax-related purposes, but there are important distinctions between them. These differences depend largely on your immigration status and how each number is meant to be used. Here’s what you need to know to understand which one applies to you.
What Is the SSN?
The Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It’s primarily used to track earnings, calculate Social Security benefits, and verify identity for tax and employment purposes.
Having an SSN is required if you want to work legally in the U.S.. The government uses it to monitor your work history, determine your eligibility for Social Security retirement or disability benefits, and for filing tax returns.
Beyond taxes, the SSN is also essential for everyday financial activities. You’ll need it to open a bank account, apply for credit or loans, rent an apartment, or even set up utilities like electricity or internet service.
Who Can Apply for an SSN?
The SSN is available only to:
- U.S. citizens
- Permanent residents (green card holders)
- Non-citizens who have legal authorization to work in the U.S. (e.g., certain work visas like H-1B, or student visas with employment authorization)
To apply, you must provide documentation to prove your eligibility. Foreign nationals need to show their immigration status and valid work authorization when applying through the SSA.
What Is the ITIN?
The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is also a nine-digit number, but it’s issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), not the SSA. The ITIN is designed for individuals who need to file taxes in the U.S. but aren’t eligible for an SSN.
This includes:
- Nonresident aliens with U.S. tax reporting obligations
- Undocumented residents who need to file taxes
- Dependents or spouses of foreign nationals who don’t qualify for an SSN
- Foreign investors who own property or receive income in the U.S.
An ITIN does not authorize you to work in the U.S. and does not qualify you for Social Security or any government benefits. Its only purpose is to allow individuals to meet their federal tax filing and reporting obligations.
Main Differences Between SSN and ITIN
While both serve as taxpayer identification numbers, there are key differences between them:
- Purpose: The SSN it’s for identification, employment, and social security. The ITIN is strictly for tax reporting.
- Eligibility: The SSN is for citizens, permanent residents, and those with legal work status. The ITIN is for those who don’t qualify for an SSN but still need to file U.S. taxes.
- Issuing Agency: The SSN is issued by the Social Security Administration, while the ITIN comes from the IRS.
- Benefits Access: The SSN allows access to government programs like Social Security; the ITIN does not provide any such benefits.
- Financial Use: Both numbers help to open bank accounts or file taxes, but financial institutions typically prefer SSNs due to stronger identity verification.
What You Need to Apply for Each Document
Applying for either number involves a few formal steps.
To get an SSN, you must visit a Social Security Administration office and submit:
- A completed SS-5 form
- Proof of identity and immigration/work status
- Supporting documents for verification
To apply for an ITIN, you need to submit the W-7 form to the IRS, along with:
- A valid federal income tax return
- Documents proving your foreign status and identity
You can apply for an ITIN by mail, at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or through a Certifying Acceptance Agent authorized by the IRS.
Which One Should You Get: SSN or ITIN?
Ultimately, the decision isn’t really yours to make—it depends on your legal status in the United States. If you have legal authorization to work, you should apply for an SSN. If you don’t have this permission to work, but still need to file taxes or comply with tax obligations, the ITIN is the right document.
In any case, it is essential to keep your information up to date and follow official instructions to avoid problems with the IRS or other authorities.
All information in this and other BOISLA articles is subject to change over time. Please check for updates directly with the institutions and companies mentioned. Approval is subject to the institution’s review.
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