The ITIN Format Explained
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) has the same 9-digit structure as a Social Security Number: three digits, a hyphen, two digits, a hyphen, four digits. Written as a formula: 9XX-XX-XXXX.
Two things distinguish an ITIN from an SSN at a glance:
- The first digit is always 9. No ITIN starts with any other digit.
- The group digits (positions 4–5) fall within specific ranges. The IRS only assigns ITINs with group numbers in these ranges: 50–65, 70–88, 90–92, and 94–99.
Valid ITIN Examples
Any ITIN you receive from the IRS will match this pattern. Some valid examples (these are illustrative — not real ITINs assigned to anyone):
- 912-70-3456 — group digit 70 (valid range)
- 935-58-1234 — group digit 58 (valid range)
- 978-90-5678 — group digit 90 (valid range)
- 901-94-2345 — group digit 94 (valid range)
If someone gives you a number starting with 9 but with a group number outside these ranges (e.g., 9XX-69-XXXX or 9XX-89-XXXX), it is not a valid IRS-issued ITIN.
Where to Find Your ITIN
Your ITIN appears in several places:
- CP565 letter: The IRS mails this when your ITIN is first assigned. It shows your full 9-digit number.
- Previously filed tax returns: Your ITIN appears in the "Social Security number" field on Form 1040 (ITINs go in the same box).
- W-7 form: If you renewed your ITIN, the W-7 you submitted shows the number.
- IRS by phone: Call 1-800-829-1040 if you can't locate your ITIN. Have your full name, date of birth, and mailing address ready.
ITIN vs. SSN: Format Comparison
Side by side, an ITIN and an SSN look nearly identical on paper. The differences are in what the digits represent:
| ITIN | SSN | |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 9XX-XX-XXXX | XXX-XX-XXXX |
| First digit | Always 9 | 1–8 (occasionally 9) |
| Group digits (4–5) | 50–65, 70–88, 90–92, 94–99 | 01–99 (any, by region) |
| Used for taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Work authorization | No | Yes |
| Social Security benefits | No | Yes |
For a full breakdown of what each number can and cannot do, see: ITIN vs. SSN — What's the Difference?
Do ITINs Expire?
Yes. The IRS expires ITINs in two situations:
- Non-use: If your ITIN is not used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years, it expires automatically.
- IRS expiration rounds: The IRS has periodically expired ITINs by middle-digit range. ITINs with group digits 70–88, 90–92, and 94–99 have been subject to mandatory renewal even when used regularly.
An expired ITIN is still your number — you don't get a new one. You renew by filing Form W-7 with a new valid ID. See: When and How to Renew Your ITIN.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an ITIN number look like?
An ITIN is a 9-digit number formatted as 9XX-XX-XXXX — always starting with 9. For example: 912-70-3456 or 935-88-1234. The first digit is always 9. The 4th and 5th digits fall within IRS-assigned ranges.
Is an ITIN the same format as an SSN?
The format looks identical — both are 9 digits written as XXX-XX-XXXX. The difference is the first digit: ITINs always start with 9, and the 4th and 5th digits fall within IRS-specific ranges (50–65, 70–88, 90–92, or 94–99). Social Security Numbers rarely start with 9.
How do I find my ITIN number?
Your ITIN appears on your IRS CP565 assignment letter, on any W-7 form you filed, and in the taxpayer ID field of previously filed tax returns. If you can't locate it, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040.
Do ITINs expire?
Yes. ITINs expire if not used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years. ITINs with middle digits 70–88, 90–92, and 94–99 have also been subject to IRS expiration rounds. You must file Form W-7 to renew an expired ITIN.