ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number

An individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) is a special number that the government gives to people who need to pay taxes but are not eligible for a social security number. This includes people who are not citizens, but still earn money in the United States, or people who are not eligible for a social security number for other reasons.

Think of it like a special code that the government gives you so they can keep track of your taxes even if you don't have a regular social security number. It's kind of like when you get a special code to access a game or website that not everyone can use.

To get an ITIN, you need to fill out a special form and send it to the government. They will review your application and if everything is correct, they will give you a special number that you can use to pay your taxes.

It's important to always use your ITIN when you file your taxes so that the government knows it's you who is paying your taxes. If you don't use your ITIN or you use the wrong number, the government might have trouble keeping track of your taxes and you could get into trouble.

So, if you're not eligible for a social security number but you need to pay taxes in the United States, you can get an individual taxpayer identification number to help you keep track of your taxes and make sure you don't get into any trouble with the government.