Transitioning From ITIN to SSN: What Changes and How to Do It

When Is Someone Eligible to Transition From ITIN to SSN?

SSN eligibility requires work authorization. Common pathways:

• Lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
• F-1 student with OPT employment authorization document (EAD).
• H-1B, L-1, O-1 visa with employer sponsorship.
• Asylum or refugee status approved.
• DACA recipient with valid EAD.
• US citizen by naturalization or derivation.

For the full ITIN vs SSN comparison, see the ITIN vs SSN guide.

How Do You Notify the IRS That You Have a New SSN?

1. Write a letter on plain paper.
2. Include full legal name, current mailing address, old ITIN, and new SSN.
3. Attach a photocopy of the Social Security card and a government-issued photo ID.
4. Sign and date the letter.
5. Mail to: Internal Revenue Service, ITIN Operation, P.O. Box 149342, Austin, TX 78714-9342.
6. Allow 60-90 days for the IRS to retire the ITIN and merge records.

What Happens to Tax Records During an ITIN-to-SSN Transition?

The IRS retains all prior-year tax returns filed under the ITIN. The merge process attaches that history to the new SSN, so future correspondence references the SSN even when the issue relates to an ITIN-era filing. Refunds owed on prior returns are still issued; the IRS reroutes any pending refund check to the new mailing address on file.

How Do You Update Credit Bureaus After Getting an SSN?

Each bureau handles the merge separately. Send three letters, one to each:

• Experian: P.O. Box 9701, Allen, TX 75013.
• Equifax: P.O. Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374.
• TransUnion: P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016.

Include the old ITIN, new SSN, a copy of the Social Security card, government-issued photo ID, and a request to merge the credit file. Each bureau completes the merge within 30-60 days. Existing accounts, payment history, and FICO score carry over to the new SSN.

What Banks, Employers, and Government Agencies Need Updating?

• Banks and credit unions: Submit a new W-9 with the SSN.
• Brokerage and retirement accounts: Update beneficiary forms and W-9.
• Employer: Submit a new Form W-4 and I-9.
• State DMV: Update driver's license and vehicle registration.
• State tax authority: File a notice of identifier change.
• Health insurance: Update enrollment.
• Social Security Administration: Confirm earnings begin reporting under the SSN.

What Benefits Does Transitioning From ITIN to SSN Unlock?

• Federal employment authorization.
• Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) eligibility.
• Social Security and Medicare benefits accrue under SSN earnings.
• Conventional Fannie/Freddie mortgages at 2-3 percentage points lower than ITIN rates.
• Federal student aid through FAFSA.
• Premium credit card products reserved for SSN holders.