Can't file because of R0000-503-02 rejection

[SixSigmaGuy]

I've read all he help articles regarding this type of rejection and nothing I could find applied in my case.  I think the IRS or TurboTax made a mistake and I can't afford to mail in my return.  Here's my situation:

I moved to the Philippines in 2022 and got married mid-2023.  My wife was born and raised in the Philippines and has NEVER been outside the country..  She has never filed anything with the IRS or SSA.  

I tried to file jointly on my 2023 return and followed the instructions for someone who does not have a SS# or TIN by entering [removed] in the SS# field for my wife.

My return got rejected saying the SS# does not match what the IRS has on file for her.  I think they ONLY reason they have anything on file for her is because on my 2022 return I reported her as a non-dependent and left the SS field blank.  I can't leave it blank now that we are married and filing jointly.    TurboTax won't let me file and there doesn't seem to be anything I can do.  Is there anyway to get around the rejection so I can file?

Alternatively, is there a way I can send the IRS a pdf copy of my return?  I am extremely poor, the province paid for my TurboTax, I'm using a borrowed computer to run TurboTax, I don't have a printer or access to  printer, and I can't afford the postage to mail in my return.   Please help.

[Mike9241]

you can't e-file a joint return without the spouse's SSN or TIN. There is no workaround.. Also with a joint return any income your wife had must be included.   

[SixSigmaGuy]

But it says in the TurboTax instructions to put in [removed] and the IRS will contact me with a form for getting her a US TIN.  Why didn't that work?

[SusanY1 · Accepted solution]

You can file MFS electronically with "NRA" listed as the spouse (sometimes, it doesn't always work).  However, the IRS doesn't contact you with a form to get her US ITIN.  You have to initiate that process. 

In order to file Married Filing Jointly you will need to print your tax return and attach Form W-7 to it.  You then send the signed W-7 and the required supporting documents to the address in the W-7 instructions (which also outline which supporting documents are required).  

The IRS will issue the ITIN and then insert that number on your tax return before forwarding it for processing.