Legal clinic urges immigrant taxpayers to weigh ITIN filing and notes paused DHS–tax-data sharing

Angela do Varson, an attorney with a clinic serving low‑income taxpayers, addressed immigrant filing options and legal considerations for claiming tax credits. She told listeners that people without Social Security numbers can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and file returns to claim credits, but cautioned that immigration‑related data sharing between DHS and the revenue agency has been contested.

"Muitas pessoas... disseram 1 pouco diferente," Angela said, recounting observations about decreased ITIN applications following publicity around data sharing. She said a judge paused some data‑sharing arrangements, so clients should assess their individual risk and may wish to consult immigration counsel before submitting documents that could be shared with other agencies.

The presenters reiterated that clinics and VITA volunteers can help immigrant taxpayers apply for ITINs and file returns; they also offered clinic contact information for attendees needing legal follow-up for disputes with the revenue agency. The legal clinic and presenters emphasized that deciding whether to file involves weighing potential tax refunds against any immigration-related concerns, and that individualized advice is appropriate for complex cases.