What is the difference between ITIN and SSN?

The main difference between an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and an SSN (Social Security Number) lies in who is eligible to receive them and their primary purpose.

SSN (Social Security Number):

• Eligibility: Issued to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and eligible temporary (working) residents.
• Purpose: Primarily used for employment purposes, tracking earnings for Social Security benefits, and tax reporting. If you are authorized to work in the U.S., you generally need an SSN.
• Issuing Agency: Social Security Administration (SSA).

ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number):

• Eligibility: Issued by the IRS to individuals who are not eligible for an SSN but have U.S. tax reporting or filing requirements. This includes non-resident aliens, resident aliens, their spouses, and dependents who cannot get an SSN.
• Purpose: Solely for federal tax reporting purposes. It does not grant work authorization or eligibility for Social Security benefits.
• Issuing Agency: Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
• Format: ITINs are 9-digit numbers that always begin with the number '9' (e.g., 9XX-XX-XXXX). SSNs have a different format and do not start with '9'.

In summary, if you are authorized to work in the U.S., you should obtain an SSN. If you are not eligible for an SSN but need to file U.S. taxes, you will need an ITIN.