We have a foster child in our care that qualifies for the tax credit, however, DHS does not have his SSN on file. How should we file if we don't have is SSN?

He was in our care for 10 months in 2024. DHS said they are trying to get the SSN, but are not sure the bio parents even filled out the paperwork at the hospital. Bio parents are super uncooperative.

750

Expert Alumni

Apr 4, 2025 12:55:22 PM

Without his SSN, you cannot claim him as a dependent on your return. You have 2 options.

1. You can file an extension to see if they can get his SSN situation figured out

2. You can file a return without claiming him and then when his SSN situation is resolved, you can amend your return to add him as a dependent.

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We have a foster child in our care that qualifies for the tax credit, however, DHS does not have his SSN on file. How should we file if we don't have is SSN?