Perdi mi numero de itin?

Question

ITINMay 25, 2026

Perdi mi numero de itin?

Lost your ITIN? Find out how to recover it or apply for a new one. Learn about the process and required documents for non-residents.

— Anonymous

1 Answer

Gokce Tandogdu ITIN Specialist, itin.net May 25, 2026 · Accepted Answer · 2026-05-25

You can recover your lost ITIN if you have previously filed a U.S. federal tax return and have the necessary documentation. If you cannot recover your original ITIN, you will need to apply for a new one using Form W-7. This guide explains both scenarios, covering what to do if you've lost your ITIN and how to proceed with obtaining a replacement or a new number. Recovering a lost ITIN is a common concern for non-residents and foreign nationals who have interacted with the U.S. tax system. The process depends on whether the IRS still has your records and what supporting documents you can provide. If you discover that you've misplaced your ITIN, the first step is to determine if a replacement can be issued or if a new application is required. This is a critical step for anyone who needs their ITIN for tax filings, opening a U.S. bank account, or other financial transactions. If you searched for "perdi mi numero de itin," this information is designed to guide you through the official IRS procedures.

Recovering Your Original ITIN

The IRS can provide a copy of your ITIN if you have filed a U.S. federal tax return in the past. This is generally the most straightforward method if your information is still accessible in their system. To request a copy of your ITIN, you will need to contact the IRS directly. You cannot typically get this information through an online portal or by visiting a local IRS office in person for a quick retrieval. The IRS has specific procedures for handling such requests to ensure the security of your personal tax information.

What You Need to Request Your ITIN

To successfully request your ITIN from the IRS, you must provide sufficient identifying information to prove your identity and your previous filing history. The IRS needs to verify that you are indeed the person to whom the ITIN was originally issued. The key information and documents generally required include:

Your full name as it appeared on your previous tax return.
Your Social Security number (SSN), if you have ever been issued one.
Your date of birth.
Your mailing address and potentially previous addresses used for tax filing.
A copy of your original tax return where the ITIN was used (if you have one). This is highly recommended, though not always strictly required if other information is sufficient.
A copy of your identification document, such as a passport or national identity card. This must be a government-issued document that clearly shows your photograph, name, address, date of birth, and expiration date.

How to Contact the IRS for Your ITIN

There are a few primary ways to contact the IRS to request your lost ITIN:

By Mail: You can mail a written request to the IRS Service Center where you filed your most recent tax return. Include all the required personal information and supporting documentation. The IRS will then search their records and mail your ITIN to the address on file. This process can take several weeks.
By Phone: You can call the IRS toll-free line for individuals at 800-829-1040. Be prepared for potentially long wait times. You will need to speak with an IRS representative and answer security questions to verify your identity. If successful, they may be able to provide your ITIN over the phone or mail it to you. This is often the quickest method if you can get through to an agent.
Through a Tax Return: If you are filing a tax return (e.g., Form 1040-NR for non-residents), you can request your ITIN by entering "Applied For" in the ITIN field on the return and attaching a completed Form W-7. The IRS will then assign you a new ITIN. However, this method effectively means you are applying for a new ITIN, not recovering your old one. It is best used if you are certain your old ITIN cannot be retrieved or if you need a new one for immediate filing purposes.

Timeline for ITIN Recovery

If you request your ITIN by mail, it can take the IRS anywhere from 6 to 10 weeks to process your request and mail you your ITIN. If you call the IRS, the representative may be able to provide it over the phone immediately, or it could still be mailed to you within a few weeks. The exact timeline can vary depending on IRS workload and the completeness of your information. Patience is key during this process.

Applying for a New ITIN

If you cannot recover your original ITIN, or if you have never been issued one and now need one, you must apply for a new ITIN by completing Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. This form is used for both first-time applicants and individuals who need a new ITIN because their old one has expired or was lost and cannot be recovered. The application process requires you to prove your identity and foreign status.

When You Need to Apply for a New ITIN

You will need to apply for a new ITIN if:

You have never been issued an ITIN before and require one for tax purposes.
Your previously issued ITIN has expired. ITINs issued before 2013 may need renewal if they have not been used on a federal tax return in the last three consecutive tax years.
You have lost your original ITIN and the IRS cannot locate it in their records.
Your name or other identifying information has changed significantly since your last ITIN was issued, and you need an updated ITIN.

Documents Required for a New ITIN Application (Form W-7)

When applying for a new ITIN using Form W-7, you must submit original or certified copies of documents that prove your identity and foreign status. The IRS requires a combination of documents that together establish these facts. The primary documents typically needed are:

Proof of Identity: This should be a government-issued identification document that includes your photograph, name, address, date of birth, and expiration date. The most commonly accepted document is a valid passport. If a passport is not available, other documents can be used, but they must be presented in a specific combination.
Proof of Foreign Status: This document demonstrates that you are a non-U.S. citizen or foreign national. If your identity document (like a passport) also proves your foreign status, it can serve as both.

If you do not have a passport, you can use a combination of other documents such as:

National identity card (must contain name, photograph, address, date of birth, and expiration date).
U.S. driver's license.
Birth certificate (for dependents under 18).
Foreign driver's license.
Foreign voter's registration card.
U.S. state identification card.
Foreign military identification card.
National identification card from your country of origin.
Civilan identification card for foreign governments (must show nationality).
Visa.

Important Note: For dependents under the age of 18, a birth certificate is acceptable as proof of identity and foreign status. For all other applicants, the primary document must include a photograph. You must submit either original documents or certified copies from the issuing agency. If you submit original documents to the IRS, they will be mailed back to you, which can take up to 60 days. Submitting certified copies from the issuing agency is often preferred to avoid losing original documents.

Submitting Form W-7

There are three main ways to submit your completed Form W-7 and supporting documentation:

By Mail to the IRS: You can mail your application directly to the IRS address listed in the Form W-7 instructions. This is the most common method for individuals who do not have access to a Certified Acceptance Agent. The IRS will review your application and mail your ITIN to you. This process can take 7 to 11 weeks or more, depending on IRS processing times. You will need to mail your original identification documents or certified copies, which will be returned to you after processing.
Through a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA): This is often the most convenient method. A CAA is an individual or entity authorized by the IRS to help taxpayers apply for ITINs. CAAs can verify your original identification documents or certified copies and forward your application to the IRS on your behalf. The advantage of using a CAA is that you do not have to mail your original documents to the IRS; the CAA will return them to you immediately after verification. This method can sometimes expedite the overall process, though the IRS still handles the final ITIN assignment. itin.net works with a network of CAAs to assist applicants.
At an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC): Some IRS TACs offer ITIN application services by appointment. You must call the IRS to schedule an appointment and bring your original documents or certified copies. However, not all TACs provide this service, and availability can be limited. It's best to call ahead to confirm.

Attaching Form W-7 to a Tax Return

Form W-7 is typically submitted with a federal tax return. You must be filing a U.S. federal income tax return to be eligible for an ITIN, unless you qualify for an exception. Common reasons for needing an ITIN without filing a tax return include:

Withholding tax on U.S. source income.
Filing a claim for refund of excess withholding.
Becoming a U.S. resident alien for tax purposes.
Filing a tax return as a U.S. citizen or resident alien who is a dual-status alien.
Filing a tax return for a dependent or spouse of a U.S. citizen or resident alien.
Filing a tax return for a dependent or spouse of a non-resident alien U.S. alien.

If you are applying for an ITIN solely for the purpose of opening a U.S. bank account or forming a U.S. LLC, you generally cannot get an ITIN without a tax filing requirement. The IRS requires a tax reason. For example, if you form a U.S. LLC and it has U.S. source income, you might need an ITIN to file informational returns like Form 5472. The need for an ITIN is directly tied to U.S. tax obligations.

ITIN Renewal and Expiration

It is important to be aware that ITINs do not automatically expire, but they can become invalid if not used. The IRS implemented a renewal program for ITINs that have not been used on a federal tax return for three consecutive tax years. Additionally, ITINs issued before January 1, 2013, have expiration dates and must be renewed periodically. If your ITIN has expired, you must renew it using Form W-7. The renewal process is similar to applying for a new ITIN, requiring proof of identity and foreign status, and usually needs to be tied to a tax filing. If you searched "perdi mi numero de itin" because you suspect yours might be expired or invalid, check the IRS guidelines for renewal or consult with a tax professional.

How to Check if Your ITIN Has Expired

The IRS does not send out notices when an ITIN expires. You are responsible for knowing your ITIN's status. Generally, ITINs with the following middle digits issued before 2013 have expired:

70: Expired January 1, 2018
71: Expired January 1, 2019
72: Expired January 1, 2020
73: Expired January 1, 2021
74: Expired January 1, 2022
75: Expired January 1, 2023
76: Expired January 1, 2024
77: Expired January 1, 2025
78: Expired January 1, 2026
79: Expired January 1, 2027
80: Expired January 1, 2028
81: Expired January 1, 2029
82: Expired January 1, 2030

ITINs with middle digits 83 through 92 are not yet expired. If your ITIN falls into one of the expired categories, you must renew it by submitting Form W-7, along with required documentation, and a federal tax return. The renewal process follows the same procedures as a new application, and you can use either the mail or a CAA option. Renewing your ITIN is essential for any ongoing tax obligations.

Common Mistakes When Applying for or Recovering an ITIN

When dealing with the IRS, accuracy and completeness are paramount. Several common mistakes can delay your ITIN application or recovery request, or even lead to its rejection. Being aware of these pitfalls can save you time and frustration.

Incomplete or Incorrect Form W-7: Ensure all sections of Form W-7 are filled out accurately and completely. Missing information, especially regarding your tax liability or the reason for needing an ITIN, is a common cause for rejection. Double-check your name, address, and date of birth to match your identification documents exactly.
Insufficient or Unacceptable Identification Documents: Failing to provide the correct type of identification or not submitting original or certified copies can lead to delays. Remember that if your primary document does not have a photograph, you must provide additional documents to meet the IRS requirements. Ensure all documents are valid and not expired.
Not Including a Tax Return (When Required): Most ITIN applications must be accompanied by a federal tax return. If you are not filing a tax return and do not qualify for one of the specific exceptions outlined by the IRS, your application will be rejected. For example, if you are forming a U.S. LLC and need an ITIN for Form 5472, ensure you understand the tax filing requirements associated with that entity.
Mailing Original Documents Unnecessarily: While the IRS will return original documents, there is always a risk of them being lost in transit. Using a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) to verify your documents is a safer alternative, as they will return your originals to you immediately after verification.
Not Understanding Processing Times: Expect significant processing times, especially when mailing applications directly to the IRS. Delays can occur due to high volume at the IRS or errors in your application. Factor these timelines into your tax planning.
Applying for an ITIN When You Already Have One: If you have previously been issued an ITIN, the IRS will not issue you a new one if your old one can be recovered or is still valid. If you apply for a new one when you already have one, the IRS may assign you a duplicate ITIN, which can cause confusion and problems with your tax filings. Always try to recover your existing ITIN first.

ITIN for U.S. Business Operations (EIN, LLC, Banking)

While the primary purpose of an ITIN is for individual U.S. tax obligations, it often plays a role in broader U.S. business activities for non-residents. If you are establishing a presence in the U.S., such as forming a U.S. LLC or needing an Employer Identification Number (EIN) for your business, an ITIN can be a crucial identifier.

Forming a U.S. LLC: Non-residents often form U.S. LLCs. While an ITIN is not strictly required to form an LLC, it is often needed for subsequent tax filings. For instance, if your LLC has U.S. source income or is owned by a foreign person, you may need to file Form 5472 (Information Return of a 25% Foreign-Owned U.S. Corporation or a Foreign Corporation Engaged in a U.S. Trade or Business) and Form 1120-F (U.S. Income Tax Return of a Foreign Corporation) or Form 1040-NR for the owner. The owner will likely need an ITIN to file these forms. itin.net offers services for U.S. LLC formation and registered agent services.
Obtaining an EIN: An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a federal tax identification number for businesses. While a non-resident can obtain an EIN without an ITIN (by using their foreign tax ID or simply stating "Foreign" if no such ID exists), having an ITIN can sometimes simplify the process, especially if you are the responsible party for the business. You can apply for an EIN using Form SS-4. If you're planning to open a U.S. bank account, an EIN is almost always required, and an ITIN might be needed for the account holder.
Opening a U.S. Bank Account: Many U.S. banks require both an ITIN and an EIN (for business accounts) or just an ITIN (for personal accounts) to open an account. This is especially true for non-residents who do not have a U.S. physical address or Social Security number. While some banks have become more accommodating, having an ITIN is often a prerequisite for opening a U.S. bank account with institutions like Mercury, Relay, or Brex, which cater to international founders and businesses. itin.net provides guidance and services for opening U.S. bank accounts.

Successfully managing your U.S. tax and business requirements as a non-resident often involves understanding the interplay between these different identification numbers and entity structures.

Getting Help with Your ITIN

If you've lost your ITIN or need to apply for a new one, and the process seems complex, seeking professional assistance is a wise decision. The IRS procedures can be intricate, and errors can lead to significant delays or rejections.

Certified Acceptance Agents (CAAs): As mentioned earlier, CAAs are authorized by the IRS to help with ITIN applications. They can verify your documents, assist with Form W-7, and submit the application on your behalf. This is often the most convenient and secure way to apply, especially if you cannot travel to the U.S. to submit your application in person or do not wish to mail your original documents. itin.net can connect you with qualified CAAs.
Tax Professionals: Enlisting the help of a tax professional experienced with ITINs and non-resident taxation can be invaluable. They can guide you through the process of recovering your ITIN, applying for a new one, understanding your tax obligations, and ensuring all forms are completed correctly. This is particularly helpful if your situation involves complex tax scenarios or if you need to file a tax return alongside your ITIN application.
IRS Resources: The IRS website offers extensive information on ITINs, including downloadable forms, instructions, and FAQs. You can also call the IRS directly for assistance, though wait times can be long.

For specific questions related to your situation, especially if you are unsure about your tax obligations or the best way to proceed with a lost or new ITIN, consulting with a qualified tax advisor or attorney is recommended. The information provided here is for general guidance and does not constitute tax advice. You can learn more about ITIN services and related topics on our Q&A index or About page to understand the expertise behind these answers.