The full explanation
When you file taxes, use the ITIN and the name exactly as shown on the notice. An ITIN is for tax purposes only: it is not an ID, does not qualify you for Social Security benefits or the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), and does not change your immigration status. If you later get an SSN, you use the SSN, stop using the ITIN and let the IRS know.
An example
After sending her Form W-7, Fernanda receives notice CP565 with her ITIN. She checks that her name is spelled right and keeps the letter with the copy of her return.
You will see it in…
- Your mail from the IRS, after you send Form W-7
- Your files, next to your tax returns (the IRS asks you to keep a copy)
- Your next return, where you use the ITIN and name exactly as on the notice
