The Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is issued by the IRS to individuals who must file U.S. tax returns but are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN).

Because ITINs are critical for compliance and tax benefits, Form W-7 must be completed accurately. Mistakes can cause long delays or outright rejection. Below are the 10 most common errors the IRS identifies when processing ITIN applications. Plus a practical checklist to help you avoid them.

👉 Need expert help? House of Bookkeepers ITIN Service is an IRS-Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) that helps applicants apply safely, without mailing passports overseas.

✅ Practical ITIN Document Checklist

Document Type Proves Identity Proves Foreign Status Accepted for Dependents
Passport (stand-alone) ✔️ ✔️ ✔️ (all ages)
National ID Card (with photo, DOB) ✔️ ✔️ ✔️
U.S. Driver’s License ✔️ ❌ ❌
Civil Birth Certificate ❌ ✔️ ✔️ (required <18 if no passport)
Medical Records ❌ ✔️ ✔️ (only for dependents under age 6)
School Records ❌ ✔️ ✔️ (dependents under age 14, or under 18 if a student)
Foreign Driver’s License ✔️ ✔️ ✔️
Foreign Voter Registration Card ✔️ ✔️ ✔️
Foreign Military ID Card ✔️ ✔️ ✔️
U.S. State ID Card ✔️ ❌ ❌
U.S. Military ID Card ✔️ ❌ ❌
Visa issued by U.S. State Department ✔️ ✔️ ✔️
USCIS Photo ID ✔️ ❌ ❌

👉 Tip:

  • A passport is the only stand-alone document that proves both identity and foreign status.

  • If no passport is submitted, you must provide two documents: one for identity and one for foreign status.

🚫 10 Common ITIN Application Errors

  1. Submitting Unacceptable Identification Documents

    • Only 13 approved documents are accepted (see checklist above).

    • Passport is the safest option.

  2. Missing Certificate of Accuracy (COA)

    • If applying through a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) like House of Bookkeepers, a COA must be attached.

  3. Submitting Copies That Are Not Original or Certified

    • The IRS only accepts originals or certified copies by the issuing agency.

    • Notarized copies are not accepted (except in limited military cases).

  4. Missing or Invalid Signature

    • Applicants 18+ must sign unless a valid Power of Attorney applies.

    • For under 18, a parent or guardian may sign with proof.

  5. Missing Supporting Documents

    • If no passport is submitted, you must provide two accepted documents.

    • Dependents may need proof of U.S. residency (school or medical records).

  6. Missing Date of Entry (Line 6d)

    • If required, include the date you first entered the U.S.

  7. Missing Foreign Address (Line 3)

    • A foreign address is mandatory in certain cases (e.g., Reason B).

  8. Missing Country of Citizenship (Line 6a)

    • Must be written in full (e.g., “Mexico,” not “Mex.”).

  9. Missing Name or TIN of a U.S. Person

    • For dependents/spouses (Reasons D or E), include the U.S. person’s SSN/ITIN.

  10. ITIN Renewal Errors

  • Provide the exact ITIN previously issued and the name it was issued under.

  • If your legal name changed, attach proof (marriage certificate, court order).

🔑 Key Takeaways

  • The best option: submit a valid, unexpired passport.

  • Without a passport, provide two approved documents (one identity + one foreign status).

  • Always sign and review the application before submitting.

  • If applying with a CAA, ensure the Certificate of Accuracy is attached.

📌 To avoid rejection and delays, many applicants prefer to work with a professional. House of Bookkeepers ITIN Service verifies your documents locally, prepares your W-7, and submits directly to the IRS. So your passport never leaves your country.