What is a tax identification number?

A Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or Social Security Administration for tax law purposes. A TIN is a nine-digit number that identifies you to the IRS.
A TIN must be included on returns, statements, and other tax-related documents such as:

• Tax returns
• Claiming treaty benefits
• Tax treaty benefits (other than for income from marketable securities)
• Exemption for effectively connected income
• Exemption for certain annuities

What are the other types of TINs?

Social Security numbers are the most common tax ID numbers, but other types of identification numbers commonly used include:

• Individual taxpayer identification number: A nine-digit tax ID number for non-resident and resident aliens, their spouses, and dependents who must file taxes
• Employer identification number: An EIN is a tax ID number for businesses that have employees, corporations, or partnerships that withhold taxes on income paid to non-resident aliens
• Adoption taxpayer identification number: An A TIN is a temporary nine-digit tax ID number the IRS gives to people who are in the process of adopting a child
• Preparer tax identification number: The IRS requires anyone who prepares or helps prepare federal tax returns for compensation to have a PTIN.

How can someone find their Tax Identification Number?

Individuals can find their U.S. TIN on documents such as tax returns and forms filed with the IRS.

When Is a TIN Required?

Along with annual tax returns, TINs are required in various other instances such as:

• Credit: Anyone submitting credit applications to banks and other lenders needs a Social Security number. Credit bureaus verify the applicant’s SSN to ensure they’re the ones who filled out the application. The credit reporting agencies also use TINs to report and track an individual’s credit history.
• Employment: Employers require an SSN for every job applicant. This verifies the individual can legally work in the United States. Employers verify the numbers with the issuing agency.
• State agencies: Businesses require state identification numbers to file with their state tax agencies. State taxing authorities issue the ID number to the filer.

Which countries use TINs?

Most countries use TINs. Canada uses Social Insurance Numbers (SINs) for employment, tax, benefits, and credit reasons. Countries in the European Union also use TINs to help government agencies identify taxpayers and allow businesses to invest money across the Union.

Can individuals get a TIN online?

TINs are not available online because they constitute sensitive information hackers or thieves can use to exploit the individual. The agency that issues a TIN will give the individual an official document with the unique identifier.

Is a taxpayer identification number the same as a social security number?

A Social Security number is a type of TIN. It allows individuals to work in the United States, receive credit with banks and other lenders, and file income tax returns.