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Quick Answer
An SSN (Social Security Number) is issued to citizens and work-authorized residents and grants the right to work and receive benefits. An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is issued by the IRS only for tax filing to people who cannot get an SSN. Both are nine digits, but only an SSN authorizes employment. You should never use both at the same time.
ITIN vs. SSN at a glance
ITIN
SSN
Issued by
IRS
Social Security Administration
Purpose
Tax filing only
Work, benefits, and tax
Who qualifies
People not eligible for an SSN
Citizens & work-authorized residents
Authorizes work?
No
Yes
Starts with
9
Varies
Used for loans?
Yes, many products
Yes, all products
What you can do with an ITIN
An ITIN lets you file and pay U.S. taxes, open bank accounts, apply for credit cards, and qualify for many loans — including mortgages, auto loans, and personal loans. What it does not do is authorize you to work or provide immigration status or Social Security benefits.
What happens when you get an SSN later
If you become eligible for an SSN, you must stop using your ITIN and tell the IRS. Importantly, you can ask the credit bureaus to link the credit history you built under your ITIN to your new SSN — so years of on-time payments aren't lost. That's the best reason to start building credit now, even with just an ITIN.
The bottom line
An ITIN isn't a lesser version of an SSN — it's a different tool for a different purpose. For borrowing and building credit, it gets you most of the way there. Use it well, and you'll be in a strong position whether or not an SSN ever comes.
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What is the difference between an ITIN and an SSN?
An SSN is issued by the Social Security Administration to citizens and work-authorized residents and grants work and benefits eligibility. An ITIN is issued by the IRS purely for tax filing to people who cannot get an SSN. Both are nine digits, but only an SSN authorizes work.
Can I have both an ITIN and an SSN?
No. You should never use both at once. If you become eligible for an SSN, you must stop using your ITIN and notify the IRS so your tax and credit records can be merged under the SSN.
Can I get a loan with an ITIN like I could with an SSN?
In many cases yes. ITIN holders can get mortgages, auto loans, personal loans, and credit cards. Options are somewhat narrower and rates can be a little higher, but the core products are available.
Does an ITIN let me work in the U.S.?
No. An ITIN is strictly a tax-processing number. It does not authorize employment or provide immigration status or benefits like Social Security.
What happens to my credit when I switch from ITIN to SSN?
You can ask the credit bureaus to link your ITIN credit history to your new SSN so you keep the history you built. This is why building credit under your ITIN is worthwhile even before you get an SSN.