FILE THE 2021 RETURN FIRST ... it must be mailed with the W-7 application. Then when the ITIN is issued you can file the 2022 return by using a zero for the 2021 AGI when asked. Put yourself on extension for the 2022 return if needed but do NOT file it until you get the number.
If you are a US citizen or US resident and your spouse does not have a Social Security number or an ITIN and you are not applying for an ITIN with the tax return then you can only file your tax return as Married Filing Separately. Where asked to enter the spouse's Social Security number enter 999-88-9999. You can only print and mail your tax return, it cannot be e-filed. When you print the tax return erase the Social Security number for your spouse and manually enter NRA for non-resident alien.
See this TurboTax support FAQ for the procedure to print and mail a tax return using the online editions - https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/1944348-how-do-i-print-and-mail-my-return-in-turbotax-online
If you decide to file your tax return as Married Filing Jointly you must apply for an ITIN with the tax return and you would need to be providing a statement with your tax return that you want your Nonresident Alien Spouse Treated as a Resident. See IRS Publication 54 Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad page 7 - https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p54.pdf
Go to this IRS website for ITIN information - https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/general-itin-information
Each person on the tax return needs either a SSN or ITIN number in order to successfully e-file. The Individual Tax Identification Number, or ITIN, allows taxpayers who don't have a Social Security Number (SSN) to file income tax returns. Unlike other forms of ID, ITINs only have one purpose—tax filing and reporting.
Both resident and nonresident aliens may obtain ITINs regardless of immigration status. Nonresident and resident aliens, their spouses and dependents can apply for an ITIN if they are not eligible for an SSN. Here’s who might need an ITIN:
- Nonresident aliens who are required to file a tax return
- Resident aliens who are required to file a tax return due to the number of days they reside in the U.S.
- Dependents or the spouse of a U.S. citizen or resident alien
- Dependents or spouse of nonresident alien visa holders
Tax filers who live abroad can also obtain an ITIN. Nonresident Alien Spouse - IRS options
How do I get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)?
You are too late to use online TurboTax. Online for 2021 is permanently closed. You can purchase the CD/download and use it on a full PC or Mac, and then mail your tax return. It cannot be e-filed.
Online preparation and e-filing for 2019 and 2020and 2021 is permanently closed.
To file a return for a prior tax year
If you need to prepare a return for 2019, 2020 or 2021 you can purchase and download desktop software to do it, then print, sign, and mail the return(s)
https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/past-years-products/
You may also want to explore purchasing the software from various retailers such as Amazon, Costco, Best Buy, Walmart, Sam’s, etc.
Remember to prepare your state return as well—if you live in a state that has a state income tax.
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/state-taxes/help/how-do-i-contact-my-state-department-of-revenue/0...
When you mail a tax return, you need to attach any documents showing tax withheld, such as your W-2’s or any 1099’s. Use a mailing service that will track it, such as UPS or certified mail so you will know the IRS/state received the return.
Federal and state returns must be in separate envelopes and they are mailed to different addresses. Read the mailing instructions that print with your tax return carefully so you mail them to the right addresses.
Note: The desktop software you need to prepare the prior year return must be installed/downloaded to a full PC or Mac. It cannot be used on a mobile device.
