ITIN Number Renewal: How to Renew in 2026

Who Must Renew an ITIN Number in 2026?

The IRS deactivates ITINs under 2 rules. A holder falling under either rule must renew before filing the next tax return.

• 3-year non-use rule. Any ITIN not used on a federal tax return for 3 consecutive tax years is deactivated on December 31 of the third year.
• Middle-digit 70-88 cohort. ITINs with middle digits 70 through 88 were retired in phases between 2016 and 2020 under the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act rolling expiration program. All such ITINs are inactive.

For the underlying expiration rules, see the ITIN expiration guide. For the longer-form renewal walkthrough, see the ITIN renewal page.

How Do You File an ITIN Renewal in 2026?

1. Download Form W-7 (October 2024 revision or later) from irs.gov.
2. Check the “Renew an existing ITIN” box at the top of page 1.
3. Enter the prior ITIN on line 6e. If the prior name has changed (for example, after marriage), enter the previous name on line 6f.
4. Complete the remaining personal-information fields (name, address, date of birth, country of citizenship).
5. Skip the attached tax return. Standalone renewals do not require one.
6. Attach identity documents. Original passport or 2 alternate documents from the IRS list of 13 acceptable IDs.
7. Sign in wet ink and submit through a Certifying Acceptance Agent, by mail, or at a Taxpayer Assistance Center.

What Documents Does an ITIN Renewal Require?

Renewals require the same identity documents as a new application. The IRS list of 13 acceptable documents is unchanged. Passport is the only standalone document; otherwise the applicant submits 2 documents covering identity and foreign status.

See the document list and certification rules on the ITIN documents required guide.

Can a Family Renew Multiple ITINs Together?

Yes. The IRS allows family-pack renewals so spouses and dependents sharing a primary ITIN holder can renew in a single mailing. Each family member files an individual Form W-7. The packet groups the forms together with each member's identity documents. Family-pack renewals align the expiration cycle so the household tracks one renewal calendar.

How Long Does ITIN Renewal Take in 2026?

Processing follows the standard ITIN timeline: 7 to 11 weeks off-peak, 9 to 13+ weeks during the January-April filing surge. The IRS mails a CP565-A confirmation notice 7-10 days after the renewal is approved.

For week-by-week timing detail, see the processing time guide.

What Happens If You File a Return With an Expired ITIN?

The IRS accepts the return for filing but holds processing and disallows certain tax credits. The applicant receives a CP48 notice instructing renewal of the ITIN. Refunds are withheld until renewal is approved. Failure to renew within the IRS-set response window causes loss of refundable credits (Child Tax Credit dependents must also have an SSN).

How Do You Avoid Future ITIN Expirations?

• Use the ITIN on at least one federal return every 3 tax years. Any qualifying filing resets the non-use clock.
• Mark the renewal calendar. Set a reminder 1 year before the 3-year window closes.
• Renew the entire household at once. Family-pack renewals align future expiration cycles.
• Notify the IRS of address changes. File Form 8822 so future renewal notices reach the correct address.