Can you fax Form W-7 to the IRS? No.
No. The IRS does not accept Form W-7 by fax — your application must include original or certified identification documents.
Because an ITIN application requires original identity and foreign-status documents (or copies certified by the issuing agency), there is no way to submit Form W-7 by fax. The IRS gives you three valid options: mail the package, apply in person at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or use an IRS-authorized Certifying Acceptance Agent.
What Is Form W-7?
Form W-7 is the application for an IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An ITIN is a tax-processing number for people who must file or be listed on a U.S. tax return but are not eligible for a Social Security number. You generally submit Form W-7 together with the federal tax return that requires the ITIN, along with documents proving your identity and foreign status.
How to File Form W-7 the Correct Way
The IRS offers three official ways to submit Form W-7. Each one allows your identification documents to be received, reviewed, and (for the in-person and Acceptance Agent options) returned to you safely.
Mail your application to the IRS ITIN Operation
Mail Form W-7, your tax return, and your original or certified identification documents to the ITIN Operation in Austin. The IRS returns original documents after processing.
Apply in person at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)
Certain IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers can review your original documents in person so you do not have to mail them. Appointments are required — call ahead to confirm the location handles ITIN applications.
Use a Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) or Acceptance Agent
IRS-authorized Acceptance Agents can help you complete Form W-7 and, for Certifying Acceptance Agents, verify your identity documents so you keep your originals. The agent then submits the application to the IRS.
Source: IRS.gov — Instructions for Form W-7. Addresses and filing rules change — always confirm the current instructions on irs.gov before sending. Last verified: June 2026.
| Detail | Form W-7 |
|---|---|
| Can you fax it to the IRS? | No |
| How to file | Mail to IRS ITIN Operation, an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or an Acceptance Agent |
| Purpose | Apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) |
| Why no fax? | Original or certified ID documents must be reviewed |
| Last verified | June 2026 |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Sending photocopies of ID instead of original or issuing-agency-certified documents
- •Filing Form W-7 by itself when a tax return is required to be attached
- •Mailing irreplaceable originals when a TAC or Certifying Acceptance Agent could verify them instead
- •Assuming you can fax or email the application — neither is accepted by the IRS
Need to fax a form the IRS does accept?
Form W-7 can't be faxed — but plenty of IRS forms can, like Form SS-4, Form 2848, and Form 8821. When you do need to send a fax to the IRS or your tax pro, FaxFlow lets you do it securely from your phone or computer with delivery confirmation. No fax machine required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fax Form W-7 to the IRS?
No — the IRS does not provide a fax number for Form W-7, and the application cannot be faxed because it requires original or certified identification documents. Apply by mailing it to Internal Revenue Service, ITIN Operation, P.O. Box 149342, Austin, TX 78714-9342, in person at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, or through a Certifying/Acceptance Agent, per irs.gov.
What is Form W-7 used for?
Form W-7 is used to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a tax-processing number for people who must file or appear on a U.S. tax return but are not eligible for a Social Security number.
Do I have to mail my original passport?
Not necessarily. You can avoid mailing originals by applying in person at a designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center or by using a Certifying Acceptance Agent, who can verify your documents and let you keep them.
Do I file Form W-7 with my tax return?
Usually, yes. In most cases you attach Form W-7 to the federal tax return that requires the ITIN, unless you meet one of the exceptions listed in the IRS instructions.
How long does an ITIN application take?
Processing times vary, but the IRS generally advises allowing about seven weeks (longer during peak tax season) to receive your ITIN. Always check current timeframes on irs.gov.
⚠️ Disclaimer
FaxFlow is not affiliated with or endorsed by the IRS. Fax numbers, addresses, and filing rules change often and may be outdated or incorrect here — always verify against the official IRS website (irs.gov) before sending. This page is for general information only and is not tax, legal, or financial advice; consult a qualified tax professional for your situation.