ITIN/SSN request timing question
 

Hi guys,

As of 2017 I am now treated as a US resident for tax purposes (here on an L1-A visa).

I am going back to the UK for Christmas on December 12th, returning mid-January 2018.
While in the UK I will have a meeting with the company tax-attorney to discuss what it all means for me.

Do I need to request an ITIN/SSN before I leave the US/before the end of 2017? the accountant says no, but I just want your advice too.

Is there any downside to just requesting a SSN rather than the ITIN?


Thank you for your help.

Re: ITIN/SSN request timing question
 

You need a SSN, not an ITIN.

Rene

Re: ITIN/SSN request timing question
 

You won't qualify for an ITIN.

Re: ITIN/SSN request timing question
 

Thank you very much for the reply Rene.

If you don't mind me asking, is there a reason for this or is it just better in the long run (for bank accounts/credit cards/leases/etc)?

Do you know whether I need to request this number before the end of 2017?

Re: ITIN/SSN request timing question
 

OK that clarifies my first question to Rene, thank you Cook_County.

Re: ITIN/SSN request timing question
 

I would think you'd want your SSN sooner rather than later, as it's needed for a host of other things in your life.

I'd go ahead and apply for it ASAP.

Rene

Re: ITIN/SSN request timing question
 

If you are already considered a resident of the US and are working here in the US on an L visa, then you should have a Social Security Number already for your payroll department if you are being paid in US dollars. I searched and see that you are being paid in the UK not the US.

You should go to the SS office this week and apply for your social security number/card. Most likely you will have it before you leave for the UK.