The reaction of 2,2,2-nitrilotriacetic acid with phosphorus pentachloride furnished 2,2,2-nitrilotriacetyl chloride (1), a useful chemical intermediate for various further reactions. The compound has been fully characterized by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, vibrational analysis (IR and Raman), mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. Furthermore, the crystal structure of 1 has been determined and discussed thoroughly, showing a NC 3 unit with an unusual, nearly planar configuration.