Can I leave the SSN field for my dependents in blank since I will apply for ITINs for them?

[andre-franco]

I'm leaving the SSN blank for my daughters because I will request ITINs for them (via Form W7) along with my tax return. The problem is that when I get to the point of Health Insurance, it's not allowing me to go ahead before I "fix" those SSN fields. Yet, it says that there is a Missing birthdate in our Personal info, but  birthdates are provided for all of us.

[DianeW]

Enter "Applied For" in the social security number slot under the Personal Info tab, if that doesn't allow you to proceed to file by mail try the SSNs shown below. If you use numbers, be sure to white them out after print before mailing your return.

Prepare a Form W7, for each person who needs an ITIN, then include it with the required documentation with your return.  File the return to this address.

Internal Revenue Service . ITIN Operation . PO Box 149342 . Austin TX 78714-9342

FYI, this applies to the current tax year, 2016. Follow these steps to prepare your return for mailing.

1. Complete Form W-7 - IRS.gov (IRS - W7 Instructions)
2. Complete your federal and state tax returns using the number 999-88-9999 in place of a Social Security Number.
3. Print the tax returns and cross off the 999-88-9999 from the SSN field. Do not attempt to e-file your return.
4. Write "Applying for ITIN; Application attached" next to the SSN field.
5. Mail the signed federal return, the completed Form W-7, and all documentation required by the Form W-7 (Alternatively, you may choose to take all this information in-person to a local IRS office for processing.)  
6. If you need to file a state tax return: Mail the signed state return and a copy of Form W-7 to your state's regular filing address. 

[chovaz]

Is there any benefit to including a dependent on your tax return if they only qualify for an ITIN?

My daughter is here on an L2 visa so she does not qualify for an SSN. I understand that I cannot claim her as a dependent or receive any tax credits for her if she does not have an SSN. Do I even need to include her on my return?

[JohnW222]

A child with an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) could still qualify you for the Credit for Other Dependents.

Please see the TurboTax Help article “Why am I getting the Credit for Other Dependents instead of the Child Tax Credit?” for more information.