I AM MARRIED AND I WANT TO FILE AS MARRIED FILING JOINTLY BUT MY WIFE DOES NOT LIVE IN UNITED STATES AND DOES NOT HAVE SSN OR ITIN NUMBER . HOW SHOULD I PROCEED THEN?

[pvaghani16]

I CANOT FILED SINGLE AS I AM MARRIED
IF I FILE AS MARRIED FILING JOINTLY THEN I NEED SSN OR ITIN NUMBER
HOW DO I EFILE THEN??

[JohnB5677]

To file a return, the IRS requires a Social Security Number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for each person(s) listed on your return.

If you, your dependent(s) or spouse does not have (and is not eligible to receive) a SSN, then you must list the ITIN instead of a SSN.

Your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is nine digits and formatted like a social security number, but it’s not the same.

For example, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number shouldn’t be understood to mean one is authorized to work in the United States or qualify you for Social Security benefits.

However, having your ITIN can allow you to file your taxes in a timely manner.