If you’re a foreign investor looking to buy stocks in the US, you may be wondering if you can use your ITIN number to do so.
The answer is yes – with some restrictions.
In this article, we’ll tell you more about how to buy stocks with an ITIN and what you need to know before getting started.
What is an ITIN number?
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit number assigned by the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who are required to have a US tax identification number but who do not have a Social Security Number (SSN).
ITINs are issued regardless of immigration status.
Anyone who has filed a federal tax return with an ITIN is eligible to receive refunds and other benefits.
To obtain an ITIN, taxpayers must submit a federal tax return with their application.
An ITIN can only be used for federal tax purposes; it cannot be used to obtain employment or credit.
Each year, the IRS issues more than two million ITINs.
Most ITIN holders are non-US citizens, although a small number of US citizens and legal residents also hold ITINs.
How can I get an ITIN number?
ITINs are assigned to foreign nationals and others with federal tax responsibilities in the United States that are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN).
If you need to file a federal tax return but do not have an SSN, you can apply for an ITIN using IRS Form W-7.
The application process can be completed online, by mail, or in person at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.
Once you have submitted your application, you will need to provide proof of your identity and alien status and documents supporting your tax filing status.
Once your ITIN has been assigned, you can use it to file your federal tax return and claim any credits or deductions to which you are entitled.
How long does it take to receive an ITIN?
It should take up to six weeks for an applicant to receive their ITIN.
However, because ITIN applications must be submitted with tax returns, they are frequently submitted during peak processing times.
As a result, it can take 8 to 10 weeks for an ITIN to become available.
All original documents or certified copies submitted in support of an ITIN application will be returned within 65 days.
If you do not receive your original and certified documents within 65 days of mailing them to the IRS, call 1-800-908-9982 to check on the status of your papers.
How do I go about buying stocks with my ITIN number?
If you’re looking to buy stocks with your ITIN number, there are a few things you need to know.
First, you’ll need to open up a brokerage account with a firm that accepts ITIN numbers.
Not all firms do, so be sure to check before you start the account-opening process.
Once you’ve found a firm that works with ITIN numbers, you’ll need to provide them with your number and other information, such as your name, address, and date of birth.
Once your account is opened, you’ll be able to buy and sell stocks like any other investor.
Keep in mind, however, that there may be some restrictions on which stocks you can buy and sell depending on the firm you’re working with.
Before starting trading, talk to your broker about any limitations.
- Consider reading: Can undocumented immigrants invest in the stock market?
What other uses can an ITIN number have?
An ITIN number can also be used to open a bank account.
This is especially useful for immigrants who may not have access to other forms of identification.
In addition, an ITIN number can be used to apply for a credit card.
This can help to build credit, which can be beneficial when applying for a loan or renting an apartment.
An ITIN number can also be used to file taxes.
This is important for all immigrants, as it allows them to comply with tax laws and avoid penalties.
It can also help secure a driver’s license in some states.
Lastly, an ITIN number can be used as proof of residency.
At some point in the future, an immigrant may need to prove how long they have been in the United States, and having a tax return filed using an ITIN is one way to show that.
By understanding the various uses of an ITIN number, immigrants can maximize their financial opportunities and better integrate into their new community.
- Consider reading: 401k for immigrants: What do you need to know?
What should I do if my ITIN number expires or is no longer valid?
If your ITIN is about to expire or has already expired, you must submit a renewal application as soon as possible.
You can renew your ITIN by completing IRS Form W-7 and submitting it, along with supporting documentation, to the IRS.
If you do not renew your ITIN before it expires, you will be unable to file your taxes and may face significant delays in processing any refunds you are owed.
In addition, if you have applied for any credit products in the past year, your applications may be denied.
For these reasons, it is important to keep track of your ITIN expiration date and take action to renew your number before it expires.
Can I buy stocks with an ITIN number? – Conclusion
The process is relatively simple if you want to buy stocks with an ITIN number.
You need to provide some basic information and submit your application.
Once your application is approved, you can start buying stocks right away.
Have you tried using an ITIN number to buy stocks? What was your experience like?
