How to Get an Adoption Tax ID Number

Bringing a child home through adoption is life-changing. It also comes with paperwork. One key step is securing an adoption tax ID number. This number lets you claim the Adoption Tax Credit on your federal return. The credit can reach $16,810 per child in 2025. That money helps offset costs like agency fees, travel, and legal expenses. This guide walks you through the entire adoption process for tax identification. You’ll learn exactly what to do, when, and how to avoid delays. Let’s make taxes one less worry.

What Is an Adoption Tax ID Number?

The adoption tax ID number is simply a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for the adopted child. The IRS requires it to process the Adoption Tax Credit (Form 8839). Without it, your claim stalls.

Most U.S.-born children get an SSN at birth. Adopted kids often do not. International adoptions or private domestic cases need extra steps. The number proves the child is your dependent. It ties expenses to a real person. Think of it as the key that unlocks thousands in refunds.

Why You Need Tax Identification During Adoption

The Adoption Tax Credit is non-refundable for most. Special needs adoptions can be refundable. Either way, you need proof of finalization. An adoption tax ID number provides that proof. It also lets you add the child to health insurance, open 529 plans, or update your W-4.

Timing matters. File the credit in the year the adoption finalizes—or the year after for international cases. Miss the window, and you lose the credit. For more on credits, see our post on child tax credits guide.

Types of Tax Identification Numbers for Adopted Children

Two main options exist.

Social Security Number (SSN)

Standard for U.S. citizens or residents. Issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA). Free and permanent.

Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

For non-residents or children without SSNs. Issued by the IRS. Renews every few years. Use only if SSN isn’t possible.

Most families choose SSN. It’s simpler long-term. International adoptees often start with ITIN, then switch after citizenship.

Step-by-Step: Get an SSN During the Adoption Process

Follow this timeline. It syncs with legal steps.

Step 1: Finalize the Adoption

You need a court order or decree. Domestic adoptions finalize in state court. International cases re-finalize in the U.S. after arrival. Keep certified copies.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Visit your local SSA office or apply by mail. Bring:

• Adoption decree (certified)
• Child’s birth certificate (original or foreign with translation)
• Proof of your identity (driver’s license, passport)
• Form SS-5 (download online)

For international kids, include:

• I-551 stamp or CRBA (if applicable)
• Visa or citizenship proof

Check the SSA checklist at SSA’s SSN application page.

Step 3: Apply In-Person or By Mail

In-person is fastest. Cards arrive in 7–14 days. Mail takes 4–6 weeks. No fee. Some states let agencies apply at placement—ask your social worker.

Step 4: Receive the Card

The SSA mails the card. Guard it like cash. Update your tax records immediately.

Special Rules for International Adoptions

International cases follow Hague or non-Hague rules. The child enters on an IR-3 or IR-4 visa.

• IR-3: Adoption finalized abroad. Apply for SSN after U.S. entry.
• IR-4: Finalize in U.S. court first.

Apply for citizenship via Form N-600. Once granted, SSN follows. Use ITIN temporarily if filing taxes before citizenship. Learn more at IRS ITIN for international adoptees.

How to Apply for an ITIN If SSN Isn’t Possible

Rare, but needed for some foster or pre-citizenship cases. File Form W-7 with your tax return. Include:

• Original adoption documents
• Passport or birth certificate
• Proof of U.S. residency

Processing takes 7–11 weeks. Renew if unused for three years. Switch to SSN once eligible.

Claiming the Adoption Tax Credit

With adoption tax ID number in hand, file Form 8839. Attach to Form 1040. List qualified expenses:

• Agency fees
• Attorney costs
• Travel (flights, lodging)
• Home study

Maximum credit: $16,810 (2025). Phase-out starts at $252,150 AGI. Special needs adoptions claim full amount regardless of expenses. Keep receipts seven years.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t let errors delay your refund.

• Applying too early: Wait for finalization.
• Using wrong name: Match decree exactly.
• Forgetting translations: Certify foreign documents.
• Missing deadlines: File in correct tax year.

Double-check Form SS-5. One typo means reapplication.

Timeline: When to Apply for Tax Identification

Print this. Tape it to your adoption binder.

State-Specific Adoption Tax Benefits

Federal credit is big. Some states add more. California offers up to $2,500. Colorado gives 35% of federal credit. Check your state revenue site. File state forms separately.

Updating Records After Getting the Number

Don’t stop at taxes. Update:

• Health insurance
• School enrollment
• Bank accounts (UTMA)
• Will or trust

Notify payroll for dependent changes. Lower withholding means bigger paychecks.

FAQs About Adoption Tax ID Numbers

Can I claim the credit without an SSN? Yes, with ITIN. But SSN is preferred.

What if the child has a foreign ID? Translate and certify. Apply for SSN after entry.

Is the credit income-based? Yes. Full credit under $252,150 AGI. Partial up to $292,150.

Foster adoption? Qualifies if court terminates parental rights.

Resources for Adoption Tax Help

Free help exists.

• IRS Publication 968
• VITA sites (free tax prep)
• Adoption agencies (tax workshops)

Complex cases? Hire an EA specializing in adoption. Worth the fee for max credit. For agency tips, see our choosing adoption agency guide.

Conclusion: Secure Your Credit Today

Getting an adoption tax ID number is straightforward. Finalize the adoption. Gather documents. Visit the SSA. File Form 8839. Watch up to $16,810 hit your return.

Start the day your decree is signed. One hour at the SSA saves thousands in taxes. Your new family member deserves every benefit. Make it happen.