When performing TIN (Taxpayer Identification Number) Matching through the IRS or other authorized systems, it’s essential to provide valid characters and formatting to avoid errors. Here’s a breakdown of valid and invalid TIN characters:
Valid TIN Formats
- Social Security Numbers (SSNs):
- Format: XXX-XX-XXXX (9 digits with dashes or just 9 digits without formatting).
- Example: 123-45-6789 or 123456789.
- Employer Identification Numbers (EINs):
- Format: XX-XXXXXXX (2 digits, a dash, and 7 digits).
- Example: 12-3456789.
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs):
- Format: 9XX-XX-XXXX (begins with a 9).
- Example: 912-34-5678.
- ITINs always fall within the ranges:
- 900-70-0000 through 999-88-9999.
- 900-90-0000 through 999-92-9999.
- 900-94-0000 through 999-99-9999.
Valid Characters
- Numeric Digits: All TINs consist of only numbers (0–9).
- Hyphen/Dash (-): Permitted as a separator (e.g., 123-45-6789).
Invalid TIN Characters
- Alphabetic Letters: Letters are not allowed in TINs.
- Special Characters: Symbols like !@#$%^&*()+=<>”/[]{} are invalid.
- Spaces: Leading, trailing, or embedded spaces will result in rejection.
- Incorrect Length:
- SSNs must have exactly 9 digits.
- EINs must have exactly 9 digits with a dash after the first two.
- Unacceptable Patterns:
- SSNs or ITINs cannot have the sequence 000, 666, or 900-00-0000.
- EINs cannot have a prefix of 00.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Mixing EIN and SSN formats.
- Including dashes in inappropriate places.
- Using placeholders (e.g., “999999999” as a fake TIN).
- Submitting truncated or partially masked TINs.
Would you like guidance on using 1099FIRE TIN matching services or error resolution? Call or email our main office at support@1099fire.com or (480) 706-6474.
