What documents are required TO OBTAIN ITIN for non-US citizens?

Thanks for the info. Do you know if bank statements from my home country would work as supporting documents? Also, how long does the whole ITIN application process usually take? I'm trying to get my business up and running asap.

Bank statements alone generally wouldn't be sufficient as supporting documents. You need documentation that specifically shows why you need an ITIN, which in your case would be business formation documents that show your connection to the business requiring an EIN. The ITIN application process typically takes about 7-11 weeks for processing during normal periods, but can take longer during peak tax seasons or if there are any issues with your application. I'd recommend applying as soon as possible if your business timeline depends on it.

Does taxr.ai actually help with the submission process too or just document review? I've been nervous about sending my original passport through the mail.

How long did the whole process take for you after using their service? And did they help with the EIN application after you got your ITIN or just the ITIN part?

They focus on document review and guidance rather than submission - they analyzed my forms and documents, showed me exactly what was wrong, and gave me step-by-step instructions for fixing everything. Their system flagged that I had filled out Section 6d incorrectly and missed initialing one section. The whole process took about 9 weeks from submission to receiving my ITIN after using their service. They did provide guidance on the EIN application process too - they have a specific workflow that shows you how to properly complete Form SS-4 once you have your ITIN. The checklist they provided for both applications was incredibly helpful.

Wait, how does this actually work? Does it just keep calling the IRS for you or something? Seems too good to be true after I've spent hours on hold.

I'm pretty skeptical about this. Why would you get through when thousands of others can't? Sounds like they're just taking your money for something you could do yourself if you're patient enough.

It uses a technology that monitors the IRS phone lines and calls at the optimal times when wait times are shortest. When it gets through to an agent, it calls you and connects you. It's not magic - it's just automating the calling process so you don't have to sit on hold. I was skeptical too before trying it, but when you need specific information about documentation requirements for something as important as an ITIN application, speaking directly with an IRS agent can save you from mistakes that could delay your application by months. The time I saved was absolutely worth it since I needed my EIN to sign a major contract.

Do Acceptance Agents charge a lot? And would using one make the process faster? My main concern is the timeline since I have potential clients waiting for me to get all this paperwork sorted out.

Acceptance Agents typically charge between $50-$300 depending on the complexity of your situation and their location. Some offer additional services like reviewing your entire application package. Using an Acceptance Agent can potentially make the process faster because they help ensure your application is complete and correct the first time, reducing the chance of rejection and resubmission. They also eliminate the risk of your original documents getting lost in the mail. However, they don't actually speed up the IRS processing time - once your application reaches the IRS, it still goes through their standard processing queue. That said, a complete and accurate application will move through that queue without delays.

Unfortunately there's no online tracking system for ITIN applications like there is for tax refunds. You have to call the IRS ITIN department directly at 1-800-908-9982. Make sure you have your application confirmation if you received one, or at least the information about when and how you submitted it.