Can I find my ITIN on a prior tax return?

Yes. The 9-digit ITIN prints in the taxpayer-identification field at the top of Form 1040 or 1040-NR. If a prior return is available, the ITIN is visible at the top. The same number appears on every annual return filed by the same taxpayer.

Does the IRS charge to recover a lost ITIN?

No. Identity verification and CP565-A replacement notices are free. The IRS does not charge for ITIN recovery. Avoid third-party services claiming a fee for what the IRS provides at no cost.

How long does it take to get a replacement CP565 notice?

Approximately 4 to 6 weeks of US domestic mail transit after the IRS verifies identity. International applicants should allow 1 to 3 additional weeks for foreign postal delivery.

Can I file taxes without the lost ITIN?

No. The IRS requires the 9-digit ITIN on Form 1040 or 1040-NR. Filing with a missing or wrong number causes processing delays and refund holds. Recover the ITIN through the IRS phone line or CP565-A replacement before submitting the return.

Updated June 25, 2026

Lost ITIN Number: How to Recover It (2026)

What Are the 3 Ways to Recover a Lost ITIN Number?

Check a prior US federal tax return. The ITIN prints in the taxpayer-identification field at the top of Form 1040 or 1040-NR. Any return filed by the same taxpayer carries the same ITIN.
Call the IRS ITIN line. 1-800-908-9982 (US toll-free) or 1-267-941-1000 (international, not toll-free). After identity verification, the IRS can disclose the ITIN over the phone.
Request a CP565-A replacement notice. The IRS mails a fresh CP565-A confirmation containing the ITIN. Free; 4-6 weeks delivery.

See the broader lookup walkthrough on the ITIN number lookup page. For the CP565 letter itself, see the CP565 notice page.

What Information Does the IRS Need to Verify Identity?

The IRS uses a multi-factor verification flow on the ITIN line. Have the following ready before calling.

Full legal name exactly as filed on Form W-7 and prior returns.
Date of birth.
Mailing address currently on file with the IRS (file Form 8822 first if the address has changed).
Prior tax filing details. Filing status, year, refund or balance due amount.
Passport country and number from the original Form W-7.

How Do You Find a Lost ITIN on a Prior Tax Return?

The ITIN prints in the top-left of Form 1040 or 1040-NR in the field labeled “Your social security number.” The IRS accepts ITINs in the SSN field by design, so an ITIN filer's number sits in that exact field on every return.

For exact form-by-form field locations, see the ITIN on tax return guide.

What If the CP565 Was Never Received?

If the original CP565 never arrived after a successful Form W-7 filing, the cause is usually an address-on-file mismatch. File Form 8822 to update the IRS address, then request a CP565-A replacement. The IRS mails the new copy to the updated address.

For status checks on a recently submitted application, see the ITIN application status page.

How Can You Prevent Losing Your ITIN Number Again?

Store the CP565 with the passport. Treat it as a permanent identity document.
Make 2 photocopies. One for everyday use, one for backup in a separate location.
Save a digital copy in an encrypted file or password manager.
Record the ITIN in a tax-records folder. Annual returns make recovery automatic.

Frequently Asked Questions About a Lost ITIN Number

Call the IRS at 1-800-908-9982 (US toll-free) or 1-267-941-1000 (international) and request the ITIN. The IRS verifies identity using name, date of birth, mailing address, and prior tax filing data. After verification, the IRS can disclose the number over the phone or mail a CP565-A replacement notice.

Need a new ITIN, not a recovery? Apply with a Certifying Acceptance Agent — $297 flat, ready in 7 days.