Can my H-4 spouse get an SSN instead of an ITIN?

Only if they are eligible for one — for example, with a work authorization (EAD). If they are not eligible, an ITIN is the way to include them on your return.

Can I apply for an ITIN without filing a tax return?

Usually no. The W-7 is normally filed with a federal return; there are limited exceptions, such as certain treaty or withholding situations.

Do I have to mail our original passports?

Only if you mail the application yourself. A Certifying Acceptance Agent or an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center can verify documents so you keep the originals.

Can Elite B Tax Services help with the ITIN?

Yes. We prepare the W-7s and your return together, check the documents, and guide you on the fastest way to submit.

Individual tax

How to Get an ITIN for Your Spouse or Children (Form W-7)

By the Elite B Tax Services team 6 min readUpdated October 7, 2026

The short answer

If your spouse or child will be on your U.S. tax return but can't get a Social Security number, they need an ITIN. You apply with Form W-7 for each person, attached to your federal tax return, with a passport or other ID that is original or certified. The IRS says to allow about 7 weeks, and 9 to 11 weeks in tax season or for applications from abroad.

What is an ITIN?

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a 9-digit number the IRS issues to people who need a U.S. tax ID but are not eligible for a Social Security number. It is used only for tax purposes — it does not give work authorization or change immigration status.

Who in your family needs one?

A spouse on an H-4, L-2 or similar visa without an SSN, when you file jointly or claim them on your return.
Children or other dependents without an SSN whom you list on your return.
Anyone who must file a U.S. return themselves but cannot get an SSN.

If a family member is eligible for a Social Security number, they should get the SSN instead. An ITIN is only for people who can't.

How to apply — step by step

Fill in a separate Form W-7 for each person who needs an ITIN.
Prepare your federal tax return (Form 1040 or 1040-NR) and leave the SSN box blank for each ITIN applicant.
Gather identity documents: a valid passport works on its own; most other documents must be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency. Dependents also need proof of U.S. residency unless an exception applies.
Submit the W-7s with your tax return in one of three ways (below).
Wait for the IRS letter with the ITIN — the return is processed along with the application.

Three ways to submit

Option	How it works	Good to know
Mail to the IRS	Send the W-7s, return and documents to the IRS ITIN office in Austin	Your original passports are mailed away until the IRS returns them
Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA)	An IRS-authorized agent checks and certifies documents, then sends the application	Fee-based; you usually keep your original passports
IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center	Make an appointment; the IRS verifies documents in person	Free; appointments can be limited in tax season

How long does it take?

The IRS says to allow 7 weeks to hear about the application, and 9 to 11 weeks if you apply during peak tax season (January 15 to April 30) or from overseas. Applying early in the year, or right after the season, is usually faster.

Renewing an expired ITIN

An ITIN that is not used on a federal tax return at least once in three consecutive years expires at the end of the third year. Using an expired ITIN on a return can delay your refund and certain credits, so renew it with Form W-7 before you file.

Sources: IRS — How do I apply for an ITIN? · IRS — Instructions for Form W-7 · IRS — Taxpayers with expiring ITINs should renew them

This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice for your situation. Rules and inflation-adjusted amounts change — contact us before you file. Read our disclaimer and editorial policy.