How long should I wait before checking my ITIN status?

Wait at least 7 weeks after the IRS receives the Form W-7 packet. During peak season (January-April), wait 9 to 11 weeks. Calling earlier produces no useful information because applications are still in queue.

Is there an online portal to check ITIN status?

No. The IRS does not provide a self-service online ITIN status tool. The 3 official tracking methods are IRS phone, the CP565 approval notice in the mail, and updates from a Certifying Acceptance Agent if the application was filed through one.

What if my ITIN application takes longer than 11 weeks?

After 11 weeks (or 13+ weeks during peak), call the IRS to check for holds. Common holds include missing documentation, document mismatch, or address verification issues. A Certifying Acceptance Agent can escalate stalled cases through the IRS ITIN Operations contact channel.

Will I receive a notice when my ITIN is approved?

Yes. The IRS mails a CP565 notice to the address on Form W-7. The notice contains the 9-digit ITIN in 9XX-XX-XXXX format. There is no physical card; the CP565 is the official record.

Updated June 25, 2026

How to Check Your ITIN Application Status in 2026

When Should You Start Checking Your ITIN Status?

The IRS asks taxpayers to wait 7 weeksfrom the date the W-7 packet was received before calling. During the peak tax season (January through April) the wait extends to 9 to 11 weeks. International applicants should add 1 to 3 weeks of mail transit. Calling earlier produces a generic “still processing” response with no actionable detail.

For a full timeline by week, see the ITIN application status page.

What Is the IRS Phone Number to Check ITIN Status?

US callers: 1-800-829-1040 (toll-free, Mon-Fri 7am-7pm local).
International callers: 1-267-941-1000 (not toll-free).
TTY/TDD callers: 1-800-829-4059.
Hours: Best to call Tuesday-Thursday between 7am-9am to minimize hold time.

What Information Do You Need Before Calling the IRS?

Full legal name exactly as printed on Form W-7.
Date of birth.
Mailing address used on the W-7.
Approximate date the IRS received the packet.
USPS or carrier tracking number for the original mail.
Form W-7 reason code (line 6).

How Does a CAA Help You Track Your ITIN Status?

A Certifying Acceptance Agent has direct communication with the IRS ITIN Operations center. The CAA can:

Confirm IRS receipt by tracking number.
Track when the packet moves from intake to active review.
Receive automated notifications on assignment of the ITIN.
Escalate cases that exceed the standard 11-week processing window.
Forward CP565 approval notice details by WhatsApp or email.

What Does “Still Processing” Mean for an ITIN Application?

“Still processing” means the W-7 packet has been received and is in the queue but has not yet been reviewed. This is the normal status for the first 7 to 11 weeks. No action is needed unless the IRS requests additional documents (a CP566 or CP567 notice). Applicants who exceed 13 weeks without an update should call the IRS or escalate through their CAA.

What Happens After the IRS Approves Your ITIN?

The IRS mails a CP565 notice to the address on Form W-7.
The CP565 contains the 9-digit ITIN in the format 9XX-XX-XXXX.
The attached tax return (if any) is then processed against the new ITIN.
Original documents that were mailed to the IRS are returned 60 to 90 days after approval.
The applicant should store the CP565 securely; the IRS does not issue a card.

Frequently Asked Questions About Checking ITIN Status

Call the IRS toll-free at 1-800-829-1040 (US) or 1-267-941-1000 (international, not toll-free) Monday-Friday 7am-7pm local time. Have your full legal name, date of birth, mailing address, and approximate W-7 submission date ready. The IRS does not offer an online ITIN status portal.

Need help tracking a stalled application? Work with a Certifying Acceptance Agent — $297 flat, ready in 7 days.