The demand for ITIN services has spawned a cottage industry of fraudulent and overcharging operations targeting Canadians. With legitimate ITIN services available for $99 through IRS Certified Acceptance Agents, there is no reason to pay $500–$2,000 to unverified providers. This guide helps Canadians identify and avoid ITIN scams.
Common ITIN Scam Patterns in Canada
Warning signs of fraudulent ITIN services:
- Exorbitant pricing: Legitimate ITIN services from CAAs cost $99–$200. If someone charges $500–$2,000+ for an 'ITIN application,' this is a red flag.
- Guaranteed quick turnaround: No legitimate service can guarantee faster than 8–14 weeks IRS processing. Anyone promising 2–4 weeks is lying.
- No CAA credentials: Ask for the service's IRS CAA authorization number. Legitimate CAAs appear in the IRS's online CAA database. If they can't provide credentials, walk away.
- Requesting original passport by mail: Legitimate CAAs don't need your original passport mailed to them — they certify document copies.
Verifying IRS Certified Acceptance Agent Status
The IRS maintains a searchable list of authorized CAAs at irs.gov. Before hiring any ITIN service, verify their CAA status on the IRS website. ITIN Plus's CAA credentials can be verified through the official IRS database.
You can also verify by calling the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 and asking whether a specific person or entity is an authorized CAA.
What Legitimate ITIN Services Include
A legitimate ITIN service (like ITIN Plus at $99) provides:
- Document review and compliance check
- Form W-7 preparation with correct exception code
- CAA document certification (no mailing of originals)
- Direct IRS submission
- Application tracking support
- One point of contact throughout processing
What it does NOT include: guaranteed approval (no one can guarantee IRS outcomes), processing faster than the IRS timeline, or SSN acquisition (you cannot get an SSN as a non-US person without qualifying visa status).
Red Flags Specific to Canadian Targeting
Canadian-specific scams: services offering 'Canadian ITIN' shortcuts, services claiming to have IRS 'contacts' who can expedite, services offering SSN alternatives for Canadians (impossible without qualifying immigration status). If someone claims they can get you an SSN, ITIN 'same day,' or 'guaranteed approval in 30 days,' do not proceed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I verify an ITIN service is legitimate?
Ask for their IRS CAA (Certified Acceptance Agent) authorization number and verify it at irs.gov. Legitimate CAAs appear in the official IRS CAA database. Also check Google reviews, BBB listings, and contact information (should have a real US phone number and email).
What should a legitimate ITIN service cost?
Legitimate IRS CAA services for Canadian ITIN applications typically cost $99–$200. ITIN Plus charges $99 flat, with no hidden fees. Anything over $300 for a basic ITIN application should raise questions.
Is ITIN Plus an IRS Certified Acceptance Agent?
Yes. ITIN Plus is an IRS Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA). Our credentials can be verified in the IRS's official CAA database. We charge $99 flat for Canadian ITIN applications with no hidden fees.
Can anyone guarantee ITIN approval?
No. IRS decisions on ITIN applications cannot be guaranteed by any service. A legitimate CAA can significantly improve approval probability by correctly preparing your application, but cannot guarantee the IRS's decision.
What should I do if I've already paid a scam ITIN service?
If you paid a fraudulent ITIN service, report them to the IRS at irs.gov/fraud and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca). If payment was by credit card, dispute the charge. Contact ITIN Plus at apply@itinplus.com for help with a correct application.