How to apply for a credit card with an ITIN number
Key takeaways
- An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the IRS for individuals who are not eligible for a Social Security Number.
- Many lenders and credit card issuers accept an ITIN in place of an SSN for credit card applications.
- It’s important to consider secured cards or student credit cards as options for obtaining a credit card with an ITIN.
Building credit is essential for major life milestones like buying a car, renting an apartment or getting a mortgage. One common way to start is by applying for a credit card. However, most applications require a Social Security number (SSN), which many international students, nonresidents and immigrants do not have.
Fortunately, it’s still possible to get a credit card or open a bank account using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of an SSN. An ITIN can help unlock access to credit-building opportunities.
What is an ITIN?
According to the IRS, “An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service. The IRS issues ITINs to individuals who are required to have a U.S. taxpayer identification number but who do not have, and are not eligible to obtain, a Social Security number (SSN) from the Social Security Administration (SSA).”
ITIN vs. SSN
One of the main differences between an ITIN and an SSN is that an SSN is a lifelong identifier that stays with you once issued, regardless of when you receive it. No action is needed from you to keep your number. On the other hand, ITINs must be used to file a federal tax return at least once every three years to remain active. However, just like the SSN, the number will usually stay the same (even if it expires and is later renewed).
How Can I Get an ITIN Number?
The easiest way to get an ITIN is to file an IRS Form W-7 (Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) with your federal income tax return. During this process, you will need to prove both your identity and your foreign status by providing documentation.
To apply by mail, mail your W-7, tax return, proof of identity and foreign status documents (originals or certified copies) to:
Internal Revenue Service
Austin Service Center
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342
To apply in person, you’ll need to meet with an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent or a designated IRA Taxpayer Assistance Center. You can locate your nearest center or agent by searching on the IRS website.
Once your application is reviewed and accepted, the IRS will issue your ITIN by mail.
Can you get a credit card with an ITIN?
Yes, many issuers will accept ITIN in place of an SSN to obtain a credit card from many of the major issuers. Lenders don’t all follow the same criteria, so eligibility requirements can vary from one issuer to another. Here is a rundown of the major credit card issuers’ policies.
|
Issuer |
Accepts ITIN in place of SSN? |
|
American Express |
Yes; also accepts passport number |
|
Bank of America |
Yes; also accepts passport number |
|
Barclays |
No |
|
Capital One |
Yes |
|
Chase |
Yes |
|
Citi |
Yes |
|
Discover |
No |
|
Synchrony |
No |
|
TD Bank |
Yes, but only for select secured cards |
|
U.S. Bank |
Yes, but only for select secured cards |
|
Wells Fargo |
Yes, but only for select secured cards |
Submitting your application with an ITIN
If you have an ITIN instead of an SSN, the application process is nearly identical — just use your nine-digit ITIN in place of the nine-digit SSN. Before applying, be sure to choose the right card. Consider the following recommendations to help you decide.
Secured credit cards
Secured credit cards require an upfront deposit, usually equal to your credit limit, which lowers the lender’s risk and makes them easier to qualify for. The deposit is typically refundable, and you may upgrade to an unsecured card as your credit improves. This makes secured cards a strong option for building credit.
Student credit cards
There are also credit cards for students that have looser credit requirements. Again, many will also accept an ITIN in place of an SSN. There are even credit cards available to international students, and some of the best student cards offer rewards like cash back.
If this is your first credit card and you’re applying with an ITIN, you might not have a credit score yet. But if you do have one, applying could cause a small, temporary dip in your score. Still, approval and responsible use can help build or improve your credit over time. Be sure to always paying all your bills on time and keep your balances low to maintain a good credit utilization ratio. This not only boosts your score but also helps reduce or avoid interest charges — especially important if your card has a high rate. But the rate won’t matter if you don’t carry a balance.
The bottom line
Credit cards are available for those with ITINs. By researching your options before you apply, you will increase your chances of qualifying and can start the process of building your score well-informed.
Frequently asked questions about applying for a credit card with an ITIN number
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