Let’s be honest, when people ask how much does it cost to get an ITIN number, what they really mean is, “Do I have to pay the IRS for it, or is someone just charging me extra?” It’s a fair question because depending on how and where you apply, the cost can range from absolutely free to over $300.
And here’s the key: the IRS doesn’t charge anything for issuing an ITIN. What you pay for is the process: the help, the verification, and making sure your application doesn’t bounce back rejected.
If you’re new to the topic, start by learning what an ITIN number actually means and why you might need one. Now, let’s break down the real costs.
ITIN Application Cost Breakdown (2025)
Before deciding how to apply, you need to know exactly where the money goes. It’s worth it. The ITIN itself is free, if you may ask. So, it’s safe to say, what you’re really paying for is the whole application process and the verification support that ensures your documents don’t get rejected or lost along the way.
Now, let’s look at the following quick snapshot of how much it costs to get an ITIN number in 2025, depending on how you choose to apply:
| Method | Typical ITIN Price / Cost | What’s Included |
| Direct IRS Application (Mail) | Free | You mail your own Form W-7 with original passport or certified copy. No service charge, but it’s risky. Mistakes can delay approval by months. |
| Through a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) | $50–$275+ | A CAA verifies your identity, prepares your ITIN application, and submits it to the IRS without you mailing originals. Price depends on the agent and country. |
| Tax Preparer or Legal Firm | $150–$350 | They usually include ITIN filing as part of a tax service package, not standalone. Often costlier for dependents or foreign applications. |
| Renewal through a CAA | $50–$150 | If your ITIN gets expired, renewal fees are lower since it’s simpler paperwork. |
For details on the paperwork itself, check out our step-by-step guide to IRS Form W-7.
Want to skip mailing documents and have a verified expert handle everything? Apply for your ITIN through Business Globalizer’s IRS-Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) service.
What You’re Really Paying For
When it comes to ITIN application cost, you’re not paying for the number, as the IRS issues ITINs for free. What you’re really paying for is the expert handling of your documents and the peace of mind that everything is done right the first time.
A Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) takes care of what most applicants struggle with:
- Certifying your passport or ID correctly, so you don’t have to risk mailing originals abroad.
- Filling out Form W-7 accurately, including the right reason codes.
- Ensuring your application package is IRS-compliant and ready for approval without delays.
If something ever goes wrong, see what to do if your ITIN application gets rejected and how to track your ITIN application status properly.
That’s why so many nonresidents, dependents, international students, investors, property buyers/sellers, and foreign spouses choose a CAA. Paying a reasonable ITIN application fee once often saves weeks and a lot of stress later.
How Much Does a Certified Acceptance Agent Charge for ITIN? What Hidden Costs to Avoid?
During checking the ITIN application cost, you may notice that Certified Acceptance Agents (CAAs) services usually charge between $150 and $300. And that depends on where you live, how complex your case is, and how quickly you want it handled.
But let’s talk about the important part: be cautious of anyone offering “express” or “guaranteed” ITINs. The IRS doesn’t have a fast-track system. Every ITIN, whether filed directly or through a CAA, goes through the same federal review.
A legitimate CAA, like Business Globalizer, will give you realistic delivery windows; about 12–16 weeks for standard cases, or up to 20 weeks for international clients (because of courier and verification delays).
So, before paying extra for fake “expedite” services, make sure your ITIN number price reflects real value, accuracy, verified documentation, and expert support. Not empty promises.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an ITIN Number for Dependents or Spouses
When applying for dependents or a nonresident spouse, the ITIN application cost can be a bit higher than for a single applicant. Most Certified Acceptance Agents (CAAs) usually charge an extra $30–$80 for each dependent or spouse. The amount depends on how many documents need to be verified and certified.
Learn the details in our dedicated guides:
That small difference isn’t just a fee; it covers the extra steps the IRS asks for, like checking birth certificates, passports, or proof of relationship for family-based applications.
So, if you’re filing jointly with a foreign spouse or adding dependents to your federal tax return, that added cost simply makes sure every document is verified and filed right the very first time.
It’s still far more affordable and safer than reapplying later due to missing or incorrect dependent documentation.
So… How Much Should You Expect to Pay?
If you decide to handle the ITIN application yourself, the ITIN number cost is technically $0, the IRS doesn’t charge a fee. But here’s the catch: doing it yourself means juggling certified copies, mailing documents overseas, and waiting it out for months. In most cases, the process drags on for 16–20 weeks or even longer.
If you choose to work with an IRS-Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA), the cost usually falls between $150–$300 for an individual, plus a small add-on ($30–$80) for dependents or spouses. That fee covers everything: verifying your documents, reviewing your file, and submitting it directly to the IRS; which often saves you from rejected applications and endless delays.
Think of it this way: paying a fair ITIN application fee once is far better than repeating the process because of one unchecked box or an invalid document.
Curious how long approval takes?
👉 Read How Long Does It Take to Get an ITIN Number.
Business Globalizer: Helping You Get It Right the First Time
At Business Globalizer, accuracy isn’t an add-on; it’s the foundation of what we do. As Bangladesh’s first IRS-Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA), we’re officially authorized to verify passports and file ITIN applications directly with the IRS, so you never have to mail your original documents overseas or worry about them getting lost.
Now, whether you’re a non-U.S. business owner applying for your first ITIN, a spouse or dependent filing taxes, or an entrepreneur requiring ITIN verification for PayPal, or other platforms, our team takes care of every detail with real-world precision.
Learn why you need an ITIN (not just an EIN) for PayPal and other platforms
or how to open a U.S. company using your ITIN.
From filling out your Form W-7 to making sure the correct fee and documents are in place, we expertly and compliantly manage the entire process for you. Accurately, compliantly, and on the first try. There are almost no rejections. No delays. No second-guessing.
Closing Thoughts
Getting clarity on how much it costs to get an ITIN number helps you avoid unnecessary fees and fake “fast-track” promises. The ITIN itself is free. What you pay for is expert handling, document safety, and peace of mind.
If you want it done right the first time, Business Globalizer’s IRS-Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) and expert team, helps individuals, families, and entrepreneurs apply for their ITIN number with accuracy, transparency, and zero stress.
Also, remember to keep your ITIN active:
Frequently Asked Questions about ITIN Cost
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How much does it cost to get an ITIN number in the US?
Answer: Getting an ITIN directly from the IRS is free, but if you use a Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) for document verification and filing, expect to pay between $150 and $300 depending on your case.
Is there any government fee for an ITIN?
Answer: No. The IRS doesn’t charge any government fee for issuing or renewing an ITIN. Any cost you pay goes to the CAA or tax professional who helps prepare and verify your application.
How much is a typical CAA fee?
Answer: Most CAA fees range from $150 to $300, depending on location, complexity, and whether you’re applying for dependents or a spouse. Some agents include courier or document translation fees in the total.
Is the fee per person or per application for ITIN?
Answer: Usually, it’s per person. If you’re applying for multiple family members (spouse or dependents), each one counts as a separate ITIN application, though some CAAs offer family package discounts.
Can I get an ITIN without paying anyone?
Answer: Yes, you can. You can file Form W-7 directly to the IRS with certified documents. But since the IRS doesn’t accept notarized copies, most nonresidents prefer CAAs who can verify passports locally. It’s safer and faster.
Is translation always required?
Answer: Only if your documents, like a birth certificate or foreign ID, aren’t in English. In that case, you’ll need to include a certified translation along with your ITIN application.
If I already have an SSN, should I pay for an ITIN?
Answer: No. You should never apply for or pay for an ITIN if you already have a valid Social Security Number (SSN), the IRS doesn’t allow both.
Do ITINs expire and will I pay again later?
Answer: Yes, an ITIN expires if you don’t use it for three consecutive years. When that happens, you’ll need to renew it. The IRS still doesn’t charge any fee, but your Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) may charge again for helping with the renewal and verifying your documents.
