There
are two options. You can file, married filing jointly
(MFJ), or married filing separately. The
IRS requires married couples, whether together or separated, that are
filing as married filing separately to provide their spouse's social
security number because they want to compare the two returns. If your
spouse is a nonresident alien, she must have either an SSN or an ITIN
if:
1. You file a joint return,
2. You file a separate return and claim an exemption for your spouse, or
3. Your spouse is filing a separate return.
If
you choose to file a joint return, you will need
to fill out a W7 Form
and print and mail your returns in to the IRS in order to file it. Use
the Turbo Tax software to complete your returns but choose the option to
print and mail rather than e-file. To
apply for an ITIN, complete IRS Form W-7, IRS Application for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
If your spouse does not have a Social Security number or an ITIN and you
are not planning on applying for an ITIN, you will have to file as Married Filing
Separately. You can only print and mail your tax return, it cannot be
e-filed. After printing your tax return, you will have to erase or
white-out the erroneous Social Security number entered for the spouse on
Form 1040. In the box for the spouse's SS number write in NRA (non-resident alien).
