By Kieran C. O’Sullivan, Immigration Counselor
Tax Identification numbers – What is it?
This week one of my calls was from a person who wanted to file for a tax identification number. He had the impression that using a tax ID number granted him some kind of authorization to work in the US when in fact he did not have a visa to work here. We were able to set him straight on this while explaining that he would have to petition for a visa to work legally here.
Each year, millions of dollars are paid to the IRS by immigrants who are using ITINs. Any individual who is not eligible to obtain an SSN, but who must furnish a taxpayer identification number (TIN) to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) must apply for a TIN on Form W-7. You may, using your TIN file taxes each year you derive income from sources in the US. Some years back, the IRS did introduce some changes to the ITIN application process. Up until then an immigrant could complete the W-7, and send it along with a copy of his/her passport’s biographical page to the IRS.
Today however, each ITIN applicant must now:
Apply using the revised Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number; and Attach a federal income tax return to the Form W-7.
Applicants who meet an exception to the requirement to file a tax return (see the instructions for Form W-7) must provide documentation to support the exception. Most people use an accountant to help them obtain a TIN number. See the IRS site for more information: www.irs.gov
Diversity Visa lottery
The DV application period is still open. It closes on Nov 3rd. at 12:00 noon, Eastern Daylight Time. Go to www.dvlottery.state.gov during the registration period to submit an entry. The lottery is free to enter and we remind people to use caution on the internet.
Fraudulently obtaining drivers licenses
Another caller mentioned to me that some immigrants are fraudulently obtaining drivers licenses. This is something we advise immigrants not to pursue. It is unlawful to provide false social security numbers and documentation to the Registry of Motor Vechicles and immigrants who do so could find themselves caught during any future investigation of such activity at the RMV.
Free Legal Clinic
The IPC holds a free legal clinic in Dorchester each month. Our next clinic is on Nov. 6th at The Banshee, 934 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester. On-street parking available.
Email me your immigration query or a topic you would like us to cover today: Kieran@ipcboston.org
Disclaimer: Please note that the information contained in it is provided to inform generally, and is not intended as a substitute for individual advice. Immigration law is subject to frequent changes and individual circumstances can affect the application of certain legal provisions. For individual legal advice, please contact the Irish Pastoral Centre directly regarding upcoming legal clinics or consultation with an immigration attorney.