Filing Taxes With an ITIN
ITIN holders file U.S. federal taxes the same way as everyone else — using Form 1040 or 1040-NR depending on your residency status. You can file for free through the IRS Free File program if your income is below $84,000 (2026 threshold). Many tax preparation volunteers at VITA sites also assist ITIN holders at no cost.
Regardless of immigration status, if you earned income in the U.S. you are required to file. Filing also keeps your ITIN active — the IRS deactivates ITINs not used on a federal tax return for three consecutive years.
Child Tax Credit With an ITIN
If your children have Social Security Numbers (even if you do not), you can claim the Child Tax Credit using your ITIN. The credit is worth up to $2,000 per qualifying child for 2026 and is partially refundable (Additional Child Tax Credit). Filing is required to claim it.
What ITIN Holders Cannot Claim
- Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Requires a valid Social Security Number — ITIN holders are not eligible.
- FAFSA federal student loans: Requires an SSN. State-level aid may be available depending on your state.
Health Insurance Without an SSN
ITIN holders have several options for health coverage:
- Employer-sponsored plans: If your employer offers health insurance, you can generally enroll regardless of immigration status.
- Marketplace plans: Undocumented immigrants are not eligible for subsidized ACA marketplace plans, but some states run their own programs with broader eligibility.
- Community health centers: Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide low-cost or sliding-scale care without requiring an SSN.
- Medicaid: Eligibility varies by state. Some states extend Medicaid to all income-qualified residents regardless of immigration status.
Life Insurance Without an SSN
Many life insurance companies accept ITIN holders for term and whole life policies. You will need an ITIN, a foreign passport or government ID, and may be asked about your immigration status. Working with an independent insurance broker who specializes in immigrant clients can help you find the right policy.
Car Insurance Without an SSN
Car insurance is available to ITIN holders in all states. Major insurers including State Farm, Progressive, and GEICO accept foreign licenses and ITINs in most markets. If you have a U.S. driver's license (available in 19 states), getting car insurance is straightforward. If you only have a foreign license, call insurers directly — acceptance varies.
All Taxes & Insurance Guides
- How to File Taxes With an ITIN
- Child Tax Credit With an ITIN
- Health Insurance Without an SSN
- Life Insurance Without an SSN
- Car Insurance Without an SSN