A Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is an identification number used by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the administration of tax laws. It is issued either by the Social Security Administration (SSA) or by the IRS for a variety of individuals and entities that need to file taxes or be identified for tax purposes in the United States. The types of individuals and entities include:
-
Individuals:
-
U.S. Citizens: Typically receive a Social Security Number (SSN) from the Social Security Administration, which serves as their TIN for tax purposes.
-
Resident Aliens: Individuals who are not U.S. citizens but are considered residents for tax purposes (e.g., green card holders or those meeting the substantial presence test) also use an SSN or, if ineligible, can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
-
Nonresident Aliens: Those who are not U.S. residents but have U.S. tax filing or reporting obligations (e.g., earning U.S.-sourced income) can apply for an ITIN if they don’t qualify for an SSN.
-
-
Businesses and Organizations:
-
Employers: Businesses, partnerships, corporations, LLCs, and other entities that have employees or need to file tax returns receive an Employer Identification Number (EIN), a type of TIN.
-
Sole Proprietors: May use their SSN as their TIN unless they have employees or file certain types of taxes (e.g., employment or excise taxes), in which case they need an EIN.
-
Trusts, Estates, and Nonprofits: These entities can obtain an EIN for tax reporting purposes.
-
A Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is different than a Foreign Taxpayer Identification Number (FTIN).
Catapult complies with the tax laws of the United States. We cannot advise you on your personal tax obligations. Please consult a local tax professional.