How to apply for a credit card using an ITIN number

When you apply for a credit card in the U.S., you might have to provide your Social Security number (SSN) as proof of identity. But if you’re a new immigrant or a foreign student, you might not have an SSN. 

That’s where an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) can help. Learn more about ITINs, how to use them to apply and which types of cards you may be able to get with them.

What you’ll learn:

• The IRS issues ITINs to certain noncitizens who need to comply with U.S. tax laws but aren’t eligible for SSNs.

• You might also be able to use an ITIN in place of an SSN for some banking and credit applications.

• If an issuer accepts ITINs, the credit card application may be the same as it is with an SSN.

• If you have an ITIN and are trying to build credit, you might want to look into secured credit cards, cards for fair and building credit and student credit cards.

ITINs are nine-digit numbers that the IRS issues to certain people who don’t qualify for SSNs. ITINs are sometimes referred to as ITIN numbers. That’s not quite right because the “N” in ITIN already stands for “number,” but it still happens. It’s similar to saying ATM machine.

ITINs are mainly used for filing federal tax returns. But some lenders may allow an ITIN in place of an SSN for things like applying for a credit card as a new immigrant or opening a checking or savings account.

ITINs and SSNs are similar in some ways, but there are some differences. The Social Security Administration (SSA) issues SSNs, and the IRS issues ITINs. SSNs don’t expire or need to be renewed, but ITINs can expire if they’re not used on a federal tax return at least once every three years.

You can check the IRS’ online tool to determine if you’re eligible for an ITIN. To apply for or renew an ITIN, you’ll need to fill out IRS Form W-7. When submitting your W-7 form you may also need to include proof of identity and foreign status documents, along with a copy of the U.S. tax return you intend to file. So it’s a good idea to find out what you need before applying.

Some credit card issuers let you use an ITIN instead of an SSN when applying for a credit card. But policies for accepting ITINs differ between issuers. And some issuers may only accept ITINs for some of their cards.

Even if you can use an ITIN for your credit card application, you may still need to provide other documentation, such as proof of income and U.S. residence.

Generally, you can use an ITIN to apply for a credit card in the same way you would an SSN. You can apply online, in person, over the phone or by mail. It’s probably easiest to apply online. 

For more detail, you can check out this guide on how to apply for a credit card. But here’s an overview of the steps you might take:

1. Compare cards from the issuer to see which might best suit your needs.

2. Find out whether you’re pre-approved before applying. It can give you an idea of whether you’ll be approved, and it won’t hurt your credit scores.

3. Fill out and submit your application.

4. If you’re applying online, you could get a near-instant answer to your application. And if you’re approved, some lenders may give you a virtual card number to start using right away.

Card issuers decide which of their credit cards are eligible for ITIN applicants. If you’re new to credit, you might start by exploring these options:

• Secured credit cards: Because they require a deposit upfront and typically have a lower credit limit than unsecured cards, secured credit cards can be easier to qualify for when you’re new to building credit.

• Cards for fair and building credit: If you’ve already established fair credit scores and are looking to improve them, you may also qualify for this type of unsecured credit card.

• Student credit cards: Credit cards for students are typically for those with limited or no credit history. If you’re an international student without an SSN, you may be able to apply for a student credit card using your ITIN.

ITINs let those who can’t get an SSN comply with tax rules in the U.S. They may also be used in place of SSNs in banking and credit applications.

If you have an ITIN and would like to apply for a credit card, you can get started by comparing Capital One credit cards. You can also find out whether you’re pre-approved before you apply without harming your credit.