Obtaining An SSN or ITIN

How to Apply

IRS regulations require Foreign Nationals to have either a Social Security number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in order to receive any tax treaty benefits.

Applying for An SSN

• Foreign Nationals receiving wages:
  Apply for a Social Security Number with the Social Security Administration.
• Student employees on an F or J visa type:
   Contact the UW International Student Services Office to start the process of obtaining an SSN.
• All other visa types, J-nonstudent, H, EAD:
  Apply directly with the Social Security Administration.

Applying for An ITIN

If you are unable to apply for an SSN, Foreign National students on an F or J visa type should apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

All other visa types should work with the UW Tax Office to obtain the documentation needed to apply for an ITIN.

After Receiving Your Social Security Number or ITIN...

1. Present your Social Security Card/ITIN letter to your department's HCM Initiate 2 so they can update your Workday profile accordingly.
2. If you are a student, present your Social Security Card/ITIN letter to the UW Registrar’s Office, 2^nd Floor of Schmitz Hall, so they can update your student record.
3. Enter your SSN/ITIN into Sprintax Calculus to re-determine your tax status and tax treaty eligibility. In turn, Sprintax Calculus will generate your updated tax forms, including tax treaty documents if applicable, for you to sign and upload into Sprintax Calculus.

 Failure to notify your department and/or the Registrar’s Office may lead to you being incorrectly taxed.