When it comes to an ITIN for non-residents, most founders outside the US do not need an ITIN to form or run a US LLC: the LLC uses its own EIN. You need an ITIN if you must file a personal US tax return, claim treaty benefits, or a bank or platform specifically asks for one. You apply with IRS Form W-7, usually together with a tax return.
ITIN vs EIN
| ITIN | EIN | |
|---|---|---|
| Belongs to | A person | A business |
| Used for | Personal US tax filings | The LLC’s banking, payments and tax filings |
| Form | W-7 | SS-4 |
| Needed to form an LLC? | No | Yes, after formation |
When You Actually Need an ITIN
- You have to file a personal US federal tax return, for example because your LLC has US-connected income
- You want to claim a tax treaty benefit as an individual
- A provider such as a bank, payment platform or marketplace asks for one
How to Apply for an ITIN
- Complete IRS Form W-7
- Attach the federal tax return it supports, unless you qualify for an exception
- Prove identity and foreign status, usually with your passport (original, certified copy, or verified by a Certifying Acceptance Agent)
- Mail it to the IRS or apply through an Acceptance Agent
How Long It Takes
The IRS usually processes ITIN applications in about 7 weeks, and longer during tax season or for applications from abroad.
Keep It Active
An ITIN expires if it is not used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years, so renew it before you need it again.
ITIN for Non-Residents With a US LLC: Common Situations
- Single-member LLC, no US trade or business: the LLC files Form 5472 with a pro forma Form 1120, and the owner usually has no personal US return, so no ITIN is needed
- LLC with US-connected income: the owner may have to file a personal Form 1040-NR, and that return needs an ITIN
- Multi-member LLC: members may need ITINs if the partnership has US-connected income passed through to them
- Provider requests: a few banks, marketplaces or payment platforms ask the owner for an ITIN; ask what they accept before you apply
ITIN Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without a tax return when no exception applies, which leads to rejection
- Mailing your original passport without a plan; a Certifying Acceptance Agent can verify it instead
- Letting the ITIN expire by not using it on a return for three years in a row
- Assuming you need an ITIN just to own a US LLC
ITIN Cost and Timeline With LLCPronto
| Service | Price | Time |
|---|---|---|
| ITIN application (Form W-7) | $350 to $400 in total | About 50 days |
The exact price depends on your case, for example whether you need a tax return prepared with the application. We confirm the full price before you pay, and there are no hidden extras.
Documents You Need for an ITIN
- A valid passport. A Certifying Acceptance Agent verifies it, so you do not have to post your original to the IRS
- Form W-7. We prepare it for you
- The reason you need an ITIN: the US tax return it is for, or proof of the exception that applies to you
- Your full home address outside the US
- Your US visa details, only if you have one
FAQs
Do I need an ITIN to open a US LLC?
No. You form the LLC and get an EIN without an ITIN or SSN.
Does Stripe need my ITIN?
Usually not; Stripe works with the LLC’s EIN, though it may ask for other identity documents.
How long does an ITIN take?
About 50 days with LLCPronto, sometimes longer in tax season.
Can LLCPronto help with an ITIN?
Yes. Our ITIN service costs $350 to $400 in total and takes about 50 days. Message us on WhatsApp and our tax team will confirm whether you need one.
Can I get an ITIN without filing a tax return?
Only under specific exceptions listed in the Form W-7 instructions. Most applicants attach the tax return the ITIN is needed for.
Is an ITIN the same as an SSN?
No. An ITIN is only for tax filing. It does not give work rights or immigration status in the US.
Get Your ITIN Without Leaving Home
$350 to $400 in total, ready in about 50 days. Send us your passport on WhatsApp and our tax team starts your W-7.
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