What is the importance of ITIN number..?

Comb · Post by **Comb** » Wed Jan 11, 2006 7:54 pm

I am on H4 and have state ID and have a bank account .Do i still need a ITIN number ? What is the significance of this # especillay to H4 visa holders?

Thu Jan 12, 2006 6:02 am

You need an ITIN to be claimed as a dependent on anyone's U.S. tax return. As an H4, your spouse likely has a SSN, and will file a return in the U.S. for 2005, so you do need to apply as soon as possible, since IRS has been taking quite some time to issue these numbers.

MaggieA · Post by **MaggieA** » Thu Jan 12, 2006 7:46 am

Last I heard, the only way you could get an ITIN is to apply for in conjunction with your (spouse's) tax return filing.

A few years ago, one applied for ITINs separately, but then the rules changed completely.

Unless there has been another change (Mark? anyone?) then you'll simply have to apply for your ITIN as part of your-and-spouse's tax return filing.

nelsona · Post by **nelsona** » Thu Jan 12, 2006 8:24 am

Yes, ITINs are now only issued in conjunction with the SUBMISSION of the tax return/disclosure which requires it. This has been the case since 2003.

Disregard advice to 'apply early' -- You can't. Moreover, since you submit the return 'as if' you had the ITIN, it doesn't imapct your ability to claim the dependant, etc.

http://www.irs.gov/individuals/article/ ... ml#revised