You renew an ITIN by filing Form W-7 on paper with the IRS — there is no online or e-file option. The IRS charges $0 for renewal, and processing takes about 7 weeks, or 9–11 weeks during peak tax season. You must renew if your ITIN went unused on a US federal tax return for 3 consecutive years, or if it carries middle digits the IRS phased out between 2016 and 2020.
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a 9-digit tax ID the IRS issues to people who need a US tax number but aren’t eligible for a Social Security number — non-resident founders, spouses, and dependents use them to file US taxes.
Does your ITIN need renewal? Check these two rules
Rule 1 — the 3-year non-use rule. An ITIN expires on December 31 after 3 consecutive tax years of non-use on a US federal tax return. Used it on your 2023 return but not since? It’s set to expire.
Rule 2 — the middle-digit phase-out. ITINs with middle digits 70–88 issued before 2013 were phased out in IRS rounds from 2016–2020. If yours was never renewed, it’s already expired.
Not sure? Call the IRS ITIN helpline at +1-267-941-1000 (international) before tax season.
How to renew your ITIN step by step
- Complete Form W-7, checking the “Renew an existing ITIN” box.
- Attach identity documents — a valid passport alone proves both identity and foreign status. Without one, you need at least two documents (e.g. national ID + birth certificate), originals or certified copies.
- Mail to the IRS ITIN Operation in Austin, TX — or apply in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or through a Certified Acceptance Agent who verifies your documents without mailing originals.
- Wait for the CP565 notice — the letter confirming your renewed ITIN.
Unlike a new ITIN application, a renewal does NOT require attaching a tax return.
How long does ITIN renewal take in 2026?
About 7 weeks under standard conditions. File during peak season (January 15–April 30) or from abroad and it stretches to 9–11 weeks. Submit in the fall and you’ll usually land at the fast end. Epics Deals handles the full ITIN process for $299 — W-7 preparation, document review, and submission handled for you.
What happens if you file taxes with an expired ITIN?
The IRS processes your return but holds any refund until the ITIN is renewed — and you lose credits like the American Opportunity Credit in the meantime. Renew before filing season, not during it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my ITIN online?
No. As of 2026 the IRS offers no online or e-file option for Form W-7 — it’s paper, in person, or through a Certified Acceptance Agent.
Do I need to attach a tax return to renew?
No. Unlike a new ITIN application, renewals don’t require a federal tax return. You can file your return at the same time, but it’s optional.
How do I know if my ITIN expired?
If you haven’t used it on a federal tax return for 3 straight years, or it has middle digits 70–88 and was issued before 2013, assume it’s expired. The IRS ITIN helpline can confirm.
Will I get my passport back?
Yes — but mailing originals to the IRS can take 60+ days for return. A Certified Acceptance Agent verifies your passport in person so you keep it.
How much does Epics Deals charge for ITIN help?
$299, all-in — W-7 preparation, document check, and submission handled for non-resident and US-resident applicants alike.
Related:
- US LLC Taxes for Non-Residents: What You Must Know (2026) — https://epicsdeals.com/us-llc-taxes-non-residents/
- How to Get an EIN Without an SSN (Non-Resident Guide 2026) — https://epicsdeals.com/ein-without-ssn-non-resident/
- Form 5472: The $25,000 IRS Penalty Every Foreign-Owned LLC Must Avoid (2026 Guide) — https://epicsdeals.com/form-5472-penalty-guide-2026/
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