Social Security Numbers for Undocumented Immigrants: What You Need to Know

The Short Answer

An undocumented immigrant cannot get a standard Social Security number through the Social Security Administration. The SSA requires proof of legal immigration status — a green card, visa, or work authorization document — before issuing a number. However, the SSA does issue Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) to people without legal status who need to file taxes or report income.

An ITIN is a nine-digit number that looks like a Social Security number but serves a different purpose. It allows you to file tax returns, open some bank accounts, and report income to employers. It does not grant work authorization, change your immigration status, or make you may be able to access for Social Security benefits.

Key Takeaways

Undocumented immigrants cannot get a Social Security number but can get an ITIN from the IRS to file taxes and report income.
An ITIN does not change your immigration status, grant you the right to work, or make you may be able to access for Social Security retirement or disability benefits.
You explore for an ITIN through the IRS by mail or in person at an IRS office, not through Social Security.
Some banks, credit unions, and employers will accept an ITIN instead of a Social Security number for opening accounts or reporting wages.
Having an ITIN does not put you at risk of deportation on its own, though immigration enforcement can use tax records in other ways.

What an ITIN Is and What It Does

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), not the Social Security Administration. The IRS created ITINs in 1996 specifically for people who need to file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. You use an ITIN to file federal income tax returns, report self-employment income, and claim certain tax credits.

An ITIN is nine digits long and formatted like a Social Security number (XXX-XX-XXXX), but it begins with a 9 in the first three digits. Some employers and financial institutions will accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security number on W-4 forms, bank account applications, and other documents. However, an ITIN has no connection to Social Security benefits, work authorization, or immigration status.

How to Get an ITIN

You explore for an ITIN by submitting Form W-7 (process for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) to the IRS. You can mail the form with supporting documents to the IRS address listed on the form, or you can explore in person at an IRS office or an IRS-authorized Community Volunteer Income Tax information (VITA) site.

You must include proof of identity and proof of foreign status with your process. Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport, national ID card, or driver's license from your home country. The IRS also accepts certain other documents depending on your country of origin — the Form W-7 instructions list what counts as proof of identity for each country.

Processing time varies. If you explore by mail, the IRS typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to issue your ITIN. If you explore in person at an IRS office or VITA site, you may receive your number the same day or within a few weeks. Some VITA sites specialize in ITIN applications and have faster processing.

What an ITIN Does Not Do

An ITIN does not change your immigration status. It does not make you a legal resident, give you work authorization, or allow you to stay in the country. Immigration enforcement agencies do not use ITIN applications as a reason to initiate deportation proceedings on their own, but they can access tax records through other legal channels.

You cannot use an ITIN to become may be able to access for Social Security retirement benefits, disability benefits, or survivor benefits. Social Security benefits require a valid Social Security number and a record of work authorization at the time you earned the wages. An ITIN does not create that record.

An ITIN also does not make you may be able to access for most federal benefits programs, including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicare, or Medicaid. Some states offer limited benefits to undocumented immigrants, but federal programs generally require proof of legal status.

Using an ITIN With Banks and Employers

Many banks and credit unions will open checking or savings accounts using an ITIN instead of a Social Security number. You will need to bring your ITIN letter from the IRS, a valid photo ID, and proof of address (such as a utility bill or lease). Policies vary by institution, so call ahead to confirm that the bank accepts ITINs.

Some employers will accept an ITIN on your W-4 form instead of a Social Security number. However, not all employers are required to do so, and some may refuse. If your employer will not accept an ITIN, you may need to discuss other options with them or seek information from a worker advocacy organization.

If you report income using an ITIN, your employer will still withhold federal income tax from your paycheck. You can file a tax return each year to claim a refund if too much was withheld. You may also be able to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or the Additional Child Tax Credit if you meet the income and family requirements.

Privacy and Safety Concerns

Many undocumented immigrants worry that explore for an ITIN will trigger immigration enforcement action. The IRS and the Social Security Administration do not share ITIN or tax information with immigration authorities unless required by law. However, immigration enforcement can obtain tax records through a court order or subpoena in certain circumstances.

In practice, the IRS has stated that ITIN applications themselves are not a basis for immigration enforcement. However, if you have other concerns about your immigration situation, you may want to speak with an immigration attorney before filing taxes or explore for an ITIN. Many immigration legal aid organizations offer free or low-cost consultations.

Keeping your ITIN letter in a safe place is important. You will need it to prove your tax identification number to banks, employers, and the IRS. If you lose it, you can request a replacement from the IRS by submitting Form W-7 again or by calling the IRS.

Alternatives and Next Steps

If you do not have an ITIN and are not sure whether you need one, consider whether you have earned income that must be reported. If you are self-employed, work for cash, or work for an employer who requires a tax ID number, you likely need an ITIN. If you have no income to report, you may not need one.

If you are undocumented and have questions about your immigration options, an immigration attorney or accredited representative can review your situation. Some people may be may be able to access for temporary protected status, asylum, or other forms of relief that could lead to work authorization or legal status. An attorney can explain what options may be available to you.

Organizations that help undocumented immigrants with tax filing and ITIN applications include local VITA sites, immigrant advocacy organizations, and legal aid societies. Many offer free or low-cost help with Form W-7 and tax return preparation. You can find a VITA site near you through the IRS website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will getting an ITIN help me become a legal resident?

No. An ITIN is only a tax identification number. It does not change your immigration status, make you may be able to access for legal residency, or give you work authorization. If you want to explore legal options, you need to speak with an immigration attorney.

Can I use an ITIN to get a driver's license?

Some states allow you to get a driver's license using an ITIN, while others require a Social Security number or proof of legal status. Rules vary by state. Contact your state's Department of Motor Vehicles to learn what documents they accept.

What happens if I file taxes with an ITIN and then get deported?

Filing taxes with an ITIN is not itself a reason for deportation. However, if you are deported for other reasons, immigration authorities may review your tax records. If you have concerns about your immigration situation, speak with an immigration attorney before filing.

Can my employer report me to immigration if I give them an ITIN?

An employer cannot be forced to report you to immigration straightforward because you provided an ITIN. However, employers are required to verify work authorization through the E-Verify system in some cases. If your employer uses E-Verify and you are undocumented, that system may flag a mismatch.

Do I need an ITIN if I work under the table and do not file taxes?

You only need an ITIN if you plan to file a tax return or if an employer or bank requires a tax identification number. If you have no income to report and no institution is asking for a number, you do not need to explore for one.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.