Pronunciation: [ˈɪtɪn] (IPA) 
The word "ITIN" is an acronym for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. It is pronounced as /ˈaɪtɪn/, with the stress on the first syllable. The first two letters, "IT," signify "individual taxpayer," while the "IN" denotes "identification number." The word is spelled with the letter "I" as opposed to "E" because the pronunciation of the letter "E" can vary greatly in English, whereas the letter "I" typically has a more consistent sound.
ITIN, which stands for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, refers to a unique identification number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the United States. This number is assigned to individuals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN).
The purpose of an ITIN is to facilitate compliance with U.S. tax laws and enable individuals to fulfill their tax obligations. It serves as a recognized form of identification for tax purposes and allows nonresident aliens, foreign nationals, and individuals without work authorization to file taxes and engage in certain financial transactions.
To obtain an ITIN, individuals must apply to the IRS by completing Form W-7, along with the required supporting documentation to establish their identity and foreign status. This may include passports, birth certificates, or other official identification documents. Once approved, the ITIN is issued, and individuals can use this number to file their tax returns, claim certain tax benefits, or report income earned in the United States.
It is important to note that an ITIN does not provide work authorization or establish eligibility for Social Security benefits or the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Its sole purpose is to fulfill tax-related obligations. Individuals should renew their ITINs if they wish to continue using them for tax purposes, as they expire after a certain period.
