ITIN Processing Times: Current Wait Times and How to Check Status
The time it takes to receive your ITIN after filing Form W-7 varies by season, by method of submission, and by IRS backlog. Understanding the realistic timeline lets you plan your DVC FIRPTA refund process without surprises.
Current Processing Times (2026)
- Peak season (January through April): 9-11 weeks from when the IRS receives your W-7
- Outside peak season (May through December): 6-8 weeks
- Mailed applications with original passport: Add 7-11 weeks for the passport to be reviewed and returned (passport return runs concurrently with ITIN processing, not sequentially)
- Certifed Acceptance Agent applications: Same IRS processing time; the CAA speeds up the submission step only
The IRS ITIN Operations website lists the current processing time estimate at the top of the ITIN page (irs.gov/itin). Check there for the most current estimate, as times can vary.
Why Peak Season Takes Longer
January through April is peak filing season for all US tax returns. The IRS ITIN unit processes a high volume of new applications during these months from non-resident filers who need an ITIN to file their returns by the June 15 deadline. Processing times extend as the IRS works through the backlog.
The slowest weeks historically are mid-February through mid-April. If you can file your W-7 in October, November, or December (before the DVC sale is even listed) you can often receive your ITIN in 6-7 weeks and have it in hand long before your January or February tax return is ready to file.
Steps That Do Not Speed Up ITIN Processing
- Calling the IRS ITIN line to "check on" the application (this does not move your application faster in the queue
- Filing through a tax professional) professionals use the same IRS submission channels; they cannot jump the queue
- Paying an expedite fee (the IRS does not offer expedited ITIN processing for a fee
- Emailing or faxing) not accepted for W-7 applications
What a Certified Acceptance Agent Speeds Up
A CAA does not accelerate IRS processing. What a CAA does is eliminate delay on the front end: instead of mailing your original passport to the IRS (which may add time waiting for the postal system and the IRS to receive and review it), a CAA verifies your passport in person and submits a Certificate of Accuracy. Your application enters the IRS queue faster. The queue itself processes at the same speed for everyone.
What Happens After the ITIN Is Issued
When the IRS assigns your ITIN, they send you a letter by mail with the number. If you attached Form W-7 to a Form 1040-NR, the IRS begins processing your return immediately after assigning the ITIN (you do not need to refile. The 4-6 month refund processing window for non-resident returns begins from the point the ITIN is assigned.
Timeline Impact on Your FIRPTA Refund
ITIN processing time directly adds to the total FIRPTA refund timeline. If you file your W-7 attached to a January return and the IRS takes 10 weeks to issue the ITIN (April), the 4-6 month refund processing then runs April through October. Total from closing to refund: if you sold in December and filed in January, expect the refund in October or November) 10-11 months total.
Compare this to a seller with an existing ITIN who files in January: 4-6 month processing means a refund by May or June (just 5-6 months from closing. The ITIN delay alone is the difference between receiving your refund in June versus November.
How to Minimise ITIN Delay
- Apply for an ITIN before your DVC sale closes) apply as soon as you know you are selling
- Use a Certified Acceptance Agent so your passport is verified immediately and the application enters the IRS queue quickly
- File in October, November, or December to avoid peak season processing times
- Make sure your W-7 is complete and error-free (a rejection adds another full processing cycle
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the IRS take to process a Form W-7 ITIN application?
7-11 weeks during peak season (January through April) and 6-8 weeks outside peak season. Check the current estimate at irs.gov/itin, as times fluctuate with IRS workload.
Does using a Certified Acceptance Agent make my ITIN arrive faster?
Not significantly. A CAA speeds up the submission step) your application enters the IRS queue faster because there is no postal delay. But the IRS queue itself processes at the same speed for everyone. The CAA benefit is reliability and not having to mail your passport, not faster IRS processing.
What is the fastest way to get an ITIN for FIRPTA?
Apply in October or November (before peak season) through a Certified Acceptance Agent. This combination means your application enters the queue immediately and is processed when the IRS has its shortest backlog. Many sellers receive their ITIN in 6-7 weeks this way.