Using an Itin vs social security number

[TINA81988]

Hello, my husband just received his social security card at the beginning of February. When we went to file our taxes, our tax prep did not allow my husband to use his social security number to file our 2020 taxes. We were told that since he didn't use the social security number in 2020, there would be mismatch information and we'd be in trouble with the IRS. My husband's Itin had just expired at the end of January so he had my husband file to renew the Itin and file our taxes at the same time using the expired Itin. Will this be an issue in the future? Should we wait until the Itin is renewed before notifying the Irs that my husband now has a social security number? Also, how long is the wait time for Itin renewals and tax refunds at this time? I feel like it would have been much easier to file with his social security number and notify the Irs right after. Should we amend the tax return and file with his social security number? Thank you in advance for your assistance. 

[ToddL99]

Once you receive a SSN, you must use that number for tax purposes and discontinue using your ITIN. You must also notify the IRS that you have received the SSN (see below).

 It is improper to use both the ITIN and the SSN assigned to the same person to file tax returns.  It is your responsibility to notify the IRS so we can combine all of your tax records under one identification number. 

If you do not notify the IRS when you are assigned a SSN, you may not receive credit for all wages paid and taxes withheld which could reduce the amount of any refund due. 

You can visit a local IRS office or write a letter explaining that you have now been assigned a SSN and want your tax records combined. 

Include your complete name, mailing address, and ITIN along with a copy of your social security card and a copy of the CP 565, Notice of ITIN Assignment, if available.  The IRS will void the ITIN and associate all prior tax information filed under the ITIN with the SSN. 

Send your letter to:  

     Internal Revenue Service  

     Austin, TX 73301-0057  

[Critter-3]

Your tax preparer is an uninformed nit wit and should amend or correct  the return for free once the original return has been fully processed  if it is needed ... wait for the IRS notice to see which way you need to proceed.  You will need to include an explanation of what happened and make sure it includes the fact that the SS# was valid before you filed so you don't loose any kid credits you may have.