ITIN
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a tax-processing number the IRS issues to people who are not eligible for a Social Security number; you apply with IRS Form W-7. Many lenders accept it in place of an SSN to verify your identity on a credit application.
Why it matters
It lets people without an SSN apply for credit and build a US credit file, since many issuers accept an ITIN — though acceptance varies by lender, so confirming the current policy before applying matters.
Example
A newcomer with no SSN uses their ITIN to apply for a Capital One secured card; credit unions such as Latino Community Credit Union and Self-Help also accept an ITIN as an alternative to an SSN.
Learn more
Educational only — not financial advice. No guarantees.