ITIN Scams Targeting Indonesian Applicants — Warning Signs
- Not a registered CAA — Any service unable to prove IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent status is potentially fraudulent.
- Promises faster than 8 weeks — The IRS takes 8–14 weeks. Anyone promising instant or 2-week ITIN is misleading you.
- Asks for original passport — A real CAA certifies copies. Mailing your original is unnecessary and dangerous.
- Social media-only presence — Instagram and WhatsApp 'agents' with no verifiable credentials are high-risk.
- Fees over $300 for a new ITIN — Legitimate services charge $99–$199. Excessive fees are a red flag.
⚠️ Only an IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA) Can Certify Your Documents
Many ITIN services are not registered IRS Certifying Acceptance Agents. If a non-CAA submits your W-7, the IRS issues a CP567 rejection notice. ITIN Plus is a registered CAA — we certify your documents, file your W-7 directly with the IRS, and track your application. No original passport mailing required.
How to Verify a Legitimate ITIN Service
The IRS maintains a public directory of verified Certifying Acceptance Agents. Before paying any ITIN service, verify their CAA status at irs.gov. Look up ITIN Plus directly — our CAA registration is verifiable. Legitimate CAAs are listed by country and region.
Common scams targeting Indonesians: WhatsApp groups offering cheap ITIN in 2 weeks, unverified Instagram agents claiming IRS affiliation, services that demand your original passport. ITIN Plus never asks for your original documents — as a CAA, we certify copies. $99 flat fee, no hidden charges.
How to Apply — 4 Simple Steps
Flat fee · IRS CAA · No hidden charges · Renewal: $199 · EIN add-on: $50
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an Indonesian apply remotely?
Yes. ITIN Plus is an IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent (CAA). Email apply@itinplus.com — no embassy visit needed.
How long does it take?
8–14 weeks from IRS receipt of your W-7 application.
How much does it cost?
$99 flat fee for new ITINs. $199 renewal. $50 EIN add-on.
Does Indonesia have a US tax treaty?
Yes. Indonesia has had an active tax treaty with the US since 1990. With ITIN + W-8BEN, dividends are taxed at 15% and royalties/interest at 10%.
What documents are needed?
Your valid Indonesian passport is the primary document. ITIN Plus provides a full checklist when you apply.
📚 Related Articles
Get Your US ITIN — $99 Flat Fee
100% remote · IRS Certifying Acceptance Agent · 8–14 weeks · No embassy visit
Apply Now — $99 →+1 (305) 216-6992apply@itinplus.com