ITIN Delays During the 2025 US Government Shutdown: What You Need to Know#
The US government shutdown that started on October 8, 2025, is causing major delays in IRS services, especially for Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITIN) that non-residents use for US banking, tax filing, and credit cards. At Taxsym, as IRS Certified Acceptance Agents, we have assisted hundreds of international clients with ITIN applications, and this guide covers the key impacts, expected timelines, and practical advice to handle the slowdown. Staying informed helps you avoid surprises during this period.
Current IRS Operations Under Shutdown#
About 50-60% of IRS staff are furloughed, limiting operations to essentials like e-filing and payments, while manual tasks such as ITIN reviews on Form W-7 are paused. The IRS still accepts mailed applications, but they're stored without processing until funding returns. This echoes past shutdowns like 2018-2019, which caused months-long backlogs, now hitting peak prep for 2026 taxes. No deadline extensions are announced, so ITIN needs tied to filings remain urgent.
Pre-Shutdown ITIN Timelines#
Before October 8, ITIN processing averaged 9 weeks, with mid-to-late August 2025 mailings approved by early October via batch reviews. At Taxsym, we've received approvals for all ITIN applications the IRS processed from us up to August 28, 2025, keeping clients on schedule. Recent letters reflect pre-shutdown work, leaving September onward submissions queued first-in, first-out.
Expected Delays and Timelines Ahead#
If the shutdown lasts 4-8 weeks, ITIN timelines could shift by 11-14 weeks, turning October 2025 submissions into January 2026 approvals and extending totals to 4-6 months. Prolonged cases might delay queues further into early 2026. Post-resumption backlogs could add more delays.
Apply Now or Hold Off?#
Choose based on your situation for the best outcome:
- For urgent needs: Mail Form W-7 immediately or via a CAA to join the queue - IRS processes in order upon restart, securing your position.
- If not urgent: Monitor IRS.gov for end-of-shutdown news and apply then to keep things current without extra delays.
A Certified Acceptance Agent like Taxsym helps ensure your submission is spot-on, lowering rejection chances amid the rush.
Get Your ITIN on Track with Taxsym#
Shutdowns like this highlight the value of expert navigation for non-residents' tax needs. At Taxsym, we handle online ITIN applications worldwide, from prep, certification to submission, so you can access US banking and credit seamlessly. Apply through Taxsym online today for reliable, compliant service. Visit www.taxsym.com/itin to start - our team is ready to guide you.