SSN/ITIN Procedures

Social Security Number (SSN) and Individual Tax Payer Identification Number (ITIN)

Foreign national individuals, both resident aliens and non-resident aliens, may have either a Social Security Number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

  • A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number assigned by the Social Security Administration to an individual for tax and wage reporting purposes.
  • An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a nine-digit number assigned to an individual who is required to have a tax identification number, but who cannot obtain a Social Security Number. The ITIN is for tax reporting purposes only.

Social Security Number (SSN)

How do I get one?

To apply for a Social Security number (SSN) and card, you need to complete Form SS-5. The form and instructions are available on the Social Security website. You can also obtain a Form SS-5 by calling or visiting your local Social Security office. These services are free.

Social Security Local Office:

1415 Franklin Gateway

Marietta, Georgia 30067

T: 1-800-772-1213
TTY: 1-800-325-0778

Hours: Monday-Tuesday, Thursday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

             Wednesday 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

How do I get one?

IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) application requirements have changed.

To apply for an ITIN, you must now have a filing requirement and file a valid tax return.

An ITIN is for tax purposes only; it is not valid for personal identification. If you are legally employed in the U.S., you must have an SSN and should not apply for an ITIN.

To apply for an ITIN:

  1. Complete Form W-7 (Latest revision), Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, and
  2. Attach your completed federal tax return (Form 1040NR or 1040NREZ, with any Forms W-2, 1099 and/or 1042-S)
  3. Provide original proof of identity documents or certified copies. (See Form W-7 instructions.)
  4. Finally, mail all of the above to:

Internal Revenue Service

Austin Service Center
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342

Contact information regarding Form W-7:
Internal Revenue Service
T: 1-800-829-1040
http://www.irs.gov.

The ITIN does NOT:

  • Entitle the recipient to social security benefits
  • Indicate or validate immigration status
  • Authorize employment

Contact International Services

If you have any questions or require additional information, email internationaltax@kennesaw.edu. 

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