Can I e-file while my child doesn't have a ITIN yet?

Forum|Forum|5 years ago
June 29, 2020
1 reply
0 views

Hi guys,

This is the first time for me to file tax. My child doesn't have an ITIN yet. I heard that in this case, I cannot do e-file. However, in the TurboTax software, it recommends me to do e-file. So I'm confused now.

Thanks.

Best answer by Opus 17

@rockymountain wrote:

Thank you very much, Opus!

I have several more questions here.

1. Do you mean that I can get an automatic deadline extension when they receive my W-7 ITIN application?

2. How about the state tax? Will it also be extended automatically?

3. Can I e-file my state tax return once I got the ITIN?

4. I see the instruction for State Tax return says "Do not attach any Forms(s) W-2.", however, I see the PDF has a form " Wage and Tax Statement W-2" following the form 540, and It says "Attach this schedule to the back of your original or amended Form 540". Also, I see my W-2 copy has 2 pieces saying "Copy 2 to be filed with employee's State Income Tax Return". So, not sure what to do now.

Thank you!

1. If you mail the W-7 with the tax return, they just have to be postmarked by July 15 to be "on time" even though the IRS may be delayed in processing the forms. But if you want a formal extension, you have to apply separately, although granting it is automatic. You can file IRS form 4868 online or by mailing a copy by July 15.

2. You would need to apply separately for a state extension, you should be able to do that in Turbotax online as well.

3. You won't be able to e-file the state return when you get the ITIN, because as a security precaution you can only e-file a state return at the same time as e-filing a federal return.

4. Follow the instruction page printed by Turbotax. "Copy 2" etc on the W-2 is a throwback to when W-2s were a 4 or 5 copy carbon paper form and not all copies were the same quality. When the printed tax form says "attach" or "staple" the W-2 that relates to paper filing, but if the instructions say you don't have to do that, then you should follow the turbotax instructions instead.

O

Opus 17

Level 15

You can't claim a dependent without either an SSN or ITIN. Typically, what you do here is print your return and file by mail. Include a form W-7 ITIN application and all required proofs according to the W-7 instructions, and mail everything to the IRS address for ITIN applications. After they issue the ITIN and return your proofs, they will process the tax return. You will file your state tax return by mail after getting the ITIN.

If your child is eligible for a social security number, you should never apply for an ITIN. Apply for the SSN and don't file your tax return until the SSN arrives, even if it means filing a late tax return. You can get an automatic deadline extension to October 15.

R

rockymountainAuthor

Level 2

Thank you very much, Opus!

I have several more questions here.

1. Do you mean that I can get an automatic deadline extension when they receive my W-7 ITIN application?

2. How about the state tax? Will it also be extended automatically?

3. Can I e-file my state tax return once I got the ITIN?

4. I see the instruction for State Tax return says "Do not attach any Forms(s) W-2.", however, I see the PDF has a form " Wage and Tax Statement W-2" following the form 540, and It says "Attach this schedule to the back of your original or amended Form 540". Also, I see my W-2 copy has 2 pieces saying "Copy 2 to be filed with employee's State Income Tax Return". So, not sure what to do now.

Thank you!

O