A Taxpayer Identification Number is the unique number the Internal Revenue Service uses to identify you and track your tax obligations. The two primary types of TINs are Social Security Numbers (SSN) and the Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN).
- Social Security Number (SSN): An SSN is a nine-digit number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA). It’s primarily used for Social Security benefits and other government programs, but it’s also used as a TIN for tax purposes. SSNs are typically assigned to US citizens, permanent residents, and other individuals authorized to work in the United States.
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN): An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to individuals who are required to have a US taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for an SSN. ITINs are primarily used by nonresident aliens, foreign nationals, and dependents or spouses of US citizens or residents without SSNs. ITINs enable these individuals to meet their tax filing and reporting obligations.
- How to use when filing: When you’re working through our filing flow, you can use either of these numbers if you’re asked for your Social Security Number or TIN.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
Not everyone has a Social Security number. But they still need to file taxes.
In this scenario, you’ll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to file your return. You can learn more about this in our article, “What Is an Individual Tax ID Number (ITIN) and How to Get One.”
Once you have your ITIN number, head over to the “File Taxes” tab in the app to get started with your return.