If you have ever wondered, “Can I work legally with an ITIN?” you’re not alone. Most individuals living in the United States without a Social Security Number (SSN) wonder if their use of an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) allows one to work lawfully.
In this article, we will examine the characteristics of ITINs, their use, and why they are not given the right to work in the U.S.
What is an ITIN?
An ITIN is the abbreviation of Individual Taxpayer Identification Number and is a tax-processing number assigned to the Internal Revenue Service for people who do not have an eligible SSN.
Many ways can be compared between the SSN and the ITIN, though it consists of a nine-digit number. Such numbers are used by those individuals who want to file taxes but cannot obtain a Social Security Number.
The most typical reason for this problem is either working in the United States as a foreign national or simply a non-resident alien. Nonetheless, one should be aware that an ITIN does not grant the right to work in the United States.
How Legal is it to Work with an ITIN?
To put it bluntly, no, you cannot be lawfully employed in the United States based solely on an ITIN. An ITIN is strictly for tax purposes and does not grant anyone permission or authority to work.
The U.S. government demands specific work permits, such as an Employment Authorization Document—which is valid, a green card, or a work visa. In this case, if you haven’t obtained one of these, then your employment in the United States would be illegal, even though you have an ITIN.
Why Can’t You Work with an ITIN?
The No. 1 reason is that an ITIN is not a work permit. The United States has strict regulations on who can work, and only those with proper work authorization documents can work within the country legally.
An ITIN was actually instituted by the IRS for tax reporting purposes, not for employment.
What Can I Do with an ITIN?
While an ITIN does not convey work authorization, it has other practical uses:
To File Taxes: An ITIN can be used to file both federal and state income tax returns with the IRS, although you cannot qualify for an SSN.
To Open a Bank Account: Many banks and credit unions accept ITINs to open accounts. This simplifies financial transactions and saves.
Apply for Loans: Some financing agencies allow an ITIN when applying for a loan of personal or mortgage.
Apply for Tax Credits: There is the potential to claim various tax credits using an ITIN. You can be eligible to claim some tax credits such as CTC and EITC if you qualify for them.
Use as Identification: An ITIN can sometimes be used as an identification for services like utilities or an apartment.
What Consequences Do You Face When You Work with Just an ITIN?
When you work with only an ITIN without the proper authorization, you will attract yourself to worse situations in the following ways:
No Legal Protection: Working without any proper authorization means that you do not have any rights associated with legal employment. This might later get you exposed to exploitative employers.
Risk of Being Deported: Working with no proper authorization is considered illegal, and it is a very serious offense in terms of immigration. You are likely to be at risk for deportation among other adverse legal actions.
Adjust Status: If you have an intention to adjust your status to be a legal permanent resident or citizen, working illegally could make things complicated or even stall the process.
How to Work Legally in the U.S.
You’ll need more than your ITIN if you want to work legally in the U.S. You’ve got two options:
Work Visa: There are numerous work visas, such as the H-1B for skilled workers. You can apply for employment with a specific employer under an eligible visa.
Green Card: A green card grants one permanent residency in and work rights in the U.S. It is possible to obtain through both family or employer sponsorship.
Apply for Asylum or Refugee Status: In case of persecution, you may be able to get work authorization in due course upon application for asylum or refugee status.
Apply for Employment Authorization Document (EAD): Some visa holders or applicants for other immigration benefits will be qualified for employment authorization via an EAD, which permits them to work legally.
Myths of ITIN
There are quite a few myths surrounding ITINs. Let’s debunk a few:
“An ITIN is the same as a Social Security Number”: That’s wrong. Although both are nine-digit numbers, SSNs are for tax and work purposes, while ITINs are strictly for tax filing.
“Having an ITIN makes you a legal resident”: An ITIN does not provide any benefits like immigration or residency. It only allows one to file taxes.
“You can work under an ITIN without any consequences”: Working under improper authorization is extremely dangerous because of significant legal ramifications, such as deportation.
Conclusion: Shall You Work Legally Under an ITIN or Not?
In response to the question, “Can I work legally with an ITIN?” No. It is a tax identification number and does not imply permission for work.
Although it allows you to handle tax burdens and service on various financial grounds, you may not be allowed work in the United States. Legal work opportunities may include applying for work visas, green cards, or employment authorization documents.
FAQs
- Can I get a job with an ITIN?
No. An ITIN does not grant you any right to employment.
- Can I file taxes with an ITIN?
Yes. You are permitted to pay your taxes with an ITIN.
- Can I get a social security number using an ITIN?
No. A social security number is not attainable with an ITIN.
We hope that the above guide clears up this confusion about working with an ITIN.
For more detailed information on Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs), including how to apply and legal considerations, visit the IRS official page on ITINs.
For further assistance with ITIN applications, check out our ITIN page.