What are the common reasons?
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| No federal tax return attached, and no exception claimed | Attach the return the ITIN is needed for, or document an exception |
| Exception claimed without the right supporting documents | Include the documents the W-7 instructions list for that exception |
| Photocopies or notarized copies of documents | Send originals, copies certified by the issuing agency, or use a CAA |
| Expired documents | Use current, unexpired documents |
| Passport without a US entry date, where one is needed | Add the required proof of US residency, or another document |
| Name, date of birth or country differs between W-7 and documents | Make every detail match the documents exactly |
| Dependent does not meet the residency test | Do not apply for that dependent |
| Applicant already has an SSN, or is eligible for one | Use or apply for the SSN instead |
What do the IRS notices mean?
- CP566: the application is suspended because something is missing or unclear. Reply with the requested information by the deadline in the notice, usually 45 days; otherwise it is rejected.
- CP567: the application is rejected. The notice gives the reason. You need a new, complete application.
- CP565: the ITIN has been assigned.
If a tax return was attached to a rejected application, the IRS processes it without the ITIN, so credits that needed the number are disallowed until it is fixed.
How do you reapply?
Read the reason on the notice
Fix that problem first.
Prepare a new Form W-7
With every detail matching the documents exactly.
Attach the return or exception proof
A copy of the return if the original was already processed, as the instructions direct.
Send compliant documents
Originals, issuer-certified copies, or through a CAA.
Track it
Keep proof of sending and note when to follow up.
See how to apply for an ITIN, ITIN documents required and ITIN without a tax return.
How do you avoid a rejection?
Check the application against the W-7 instructions line by line, confirm the reason box and exception, and use a Certifying Acceptance Agent if possible: CAAs check the application before it goes in, and you keep your passport. See Certifying Acceptance Agents.
A quick final check before sending: the reason box is ticked and matches the return or exception; every name, date and country matches the documents exactly; the form is signed and dated; documents are originals, issuer-certified copies, or certified by a CAA; any dependent meets the residency test and has the proof it needs; and the return the ITIN is for is attached.
What if your filing deadline is close?
An ITIN application normally goes in with the return, so a rejection can push the return past its due date. Individuals can request an automatic six-month extension on Form 4868, and should pay any tax they expect to owe by the due date to limit late payment penalties and interest. When you resubmit, the return travels with the new Form W-7. If a refund depends on the ITIN, it will not be issued until the number is assigned. See Form 4868.
How long does a new application take?
The normal processing time, which is several weeks and longer in the filing season, starts again from the new submission. See ITIN processing time.
ITIN rejected or suspended?
We read the notice, fix the problem, and resubmit through a Certifying Acceptance Agent so it is accepted.
Questions people ask
Why was my ITIN application rejected?
Most often no tax return or valid exception was attached, documents were copies, a passport lacked a needed US entry date, or details did not match.
What is a CP566 notice?
A notice that your ITIN application is suspended and more information is needed, usually within 45 days.
What is a CP567 notice?
A notice that your ITIN application was rejected. You need to submit a new application.
Can I send notarized copies with Form W-7?
No. Send originals, copies certified by the issuing agency, or use a Certifying Acceptance Agent.
Sources
Every fee, date and rule on this page was taken from these official and primary sources.
- IRS: Instructions for Form W-7
- IRS: Understanding your CP566 notice
- IRS: Understanding your CP567 notice
- IRS: Individual taxpayer identification number
Rules and fees change. If you are reading this long after October 1, 2026, confirm the figures with the source before you rely on them.
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This guide is general information. It is not tax or legal advice for your situation.