When a married couple files separately you BOTH need to reference the other person so if you cannot get the number from them or anywhere else you will need to enter a fake SS# in the program like 456-45-6456 and choose to mail in the return. On the paper copy you will have to erase the fake number and enter REFUSED.
@Critter-3 wrote:
When a married couple files separately you BOTH need to reference the other person so if you cannot get the number from them or anywhere else you will need to enter a fake SS# in the program like 456-45-6456 and choose to mail in the return. On the paper copy you will have to erase the fake number and enter REFUSED.
I believe you must also attach a written statement giving your spouse's full name, last known address, and any other identifying information that you know (like birth date), so the IRS can find your spouse in the system and match returns.
Another option is to refer this to legal counsel. When a married couple files separate, they are required to provide their SSN to the other. Failure to do so can result in penalties being assessed by the IRS to the spouse (or ex spouse) that refuses. Sometimes, all it takes is for a lawyer to explain this, and the problem goes away.