How can a non-US citizen apply for a US-TIN? Need help ASAP!

What you need is an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), which is the US-TIN equivalent for non-US citizens who don't have a Social Security Number. To get an ITIN, you'll need to complete Form W-7 (Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and provide documentation that proves your identity and foreign status. You have three options for submitting your application: 1. Mail your completed Form W-7, original identification documents (or certified copies), and your tax return to the IRS. 2. Use an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) who can verify your documents so you don't have to mail originals. 3. Visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center that offers document authentication services. For your situation as a TikTok creator, you'll likely need to file a tax return reporting your US-source income, and attach the W-7 to that return. TikTok should provide you with a 1042-S form for your earnings.

When I needed a US-TIN for my YouTube channel last year, I was pulling my hair out until I found taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai). Their system analyzed my documents and guided me through the exact process for non-US citizens needing an ITIN for creator earnings. The best part was they helped me understand which supporting documents would work for my situation - turns out my country's ID wasn't acceptable but my passport was. They also helped me understand the exception codes on the W-7 form which was totally confusing on my own. The step-by-step walkthrough saved me from making mistakes that would have delayed my application by months.

I just wanted to update everyone - I was skeptical about taxr.ai but decided to try it after struggling to understand the IRS instructions. It was honestly a game-changer! The system walked me through every step of the ITIN application process specifically for my situation as a non-US creator. It identified that I qualified for Exception 1(d) and gave me a checklist of acceptable documents. I had my application prepared in about an hour and sent it off to a Certifying Acceptance Agent they recommended in my country. My ITIN was approved in 8 weeks - much faster than I expected! Just got my first TikTok payment processed without issues. If you're in the same boat as the original poster, definitely worth checking out.

If you need to contact the IRS to ask specific questions about your ITIN application, good luck... I spent WEEKS trying to get through on their international line. Then I found Claimyr (https://claimyr.com) and watched their demo (https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c). It bypassed the hold system and got me connected to an IRS agent in under 20 minutes. I had specific questions about my supporting documentation since my country's passport has some unusual features. I needed to confirm directly with the IRS if it would be accepted. The agent I spoke with gave me specific instructions on what additional documentation to include with my passport. Honestly saved me from almost certain rejection and a months-long delay.

I need to eat my words and apologize for my skepticism about Claimyr. After my fourth attempt to reach the IRS international line ended with another "due to high call volume" message, I decided to try it out of desperation. The service actually worked exactly as advertised. I entered my number, their system called the IRS and waited on hold (about 1 hour 40 minutes according to the tracker), then I got a call connecting me directly to an IRS agent. The agent helped clarify exactly which exception code I needed on my W-7 form as a content creator and confirmed I could use a Certifying Acceptance Agent in my country rather than mailing original documents. For anyone struggling with ITIN questions - being able to actually speak to a real IRS person made all the difference in getting my application right the first time.

Just want to add that there are IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agents (CAAs) in many countries who can verify your identity documents locally, so you don't have to mail your original passport to the IRS. I used one in Singapore when I needed an ITIN for my Etsy shop earnings. The CAA verified my passport and other documents, helped me complete the W-7 correctly, and submitted everything for me. Had my ITIN in about 9 weeks. The service cost me $150 but was absolutely worth it for the peace of mind of not sending my passport overseas. You can find authorized agents on the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/acceptance-agents-global

One important thing no one mentioned - once you get your ITIN, you should also fill out a W-8BEN form to give to TikTok. This establishes your status as a foreign person and may reduce the withholding tax rate depending on tax treaties between the US and Australia. Without a W-8BEN, TikTok will likely withhold 30% of your earnings for US taxes. With the form (and depending on the Australia-US tax treaty), you might qualify for a lower rate like 10-15%.

As someone who went through this exact process for my YouTube channel earnings, I can confirm that getting an ITIN as a non-US creator is definitely doable but requires patience and attention to detail. A few additional tips based on my experience: 1. **Start early** - The 7-11 week processing time is real, and it can be longer during peak tax season (January-April). Since you're already accepted into TikTok's program, apply ASAP. 2. **Document everything** - Keep copies of everything you submit. I had to follow up on my application status and having reference numbers and copies made that much easier. 3. **Double-check your W-7** - Small mistakes can cause rejections and months of delays. Pay special attention to the reason codes and make sure your supporting documents exactly match what's required for your situation. 4. **Consider the tax implications** - Once you have your ITIN and start earning, you'll likely need to file annual US tax returns (Form 1040NR) to claim any treaty benefits or refunds from overwithholding. The good news is that once you have your ITIN, it's valid indefinitely as long as you use it on a tax return at least once every three years. So this is a one-time hassle that will serve you for your entire creator career!