If my daughter was born in a foreign country and doesn't yet have a SSN, can I still file my taxes? (It seems the SSN field is mandatory for her.)

[KarenJ2 · Accepted solution]

You can either ignore the requirement to enter her ITIN, or you can enter a "dummy" SSN 305-44-0001 and then after you print your return you will need to mail it.  You cannot e-file your return.

In order to claim your daughter on your return, she would need to apply for an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) with  your return.

You will need to complete Form  W-7 and attach it to your return.  You cannot e-file.

Instructions for W-7

As the form asks for original documents for her, I would strongly suggest that you and your daughter go to an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center once your return is finished and her W-7 form is completed.

In person. You can apply for your ITIN by visiting designated IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers (TACs). They can verify original documentation and certified copies of the documentation from the issuing agency for primary and secondary applicants and their dependents. For dependents, TACs can verify passports, national identification cards, and birth certificates. These documents will be returned to you immediately. Service at TACs is by appointment only. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 844-545-5640.

See IRS.gov/W7DocumentVerification for a list of designated TACs that offer ITIN document authentication service. TACs that don’t offer ITIN document authentication service will mail the original documents, Form W-7, and the tax return to the IRS Austin Service Center for processing. 

[Critter]

If you anticipate  getting a SS# for her shortly DO NOT get an ITIN ... instead put your return on EXTENSION and WAIT for the SS# to file ... DO NOT  file without her on the return ... you cannot amend the return later and get the child related credits due to the new rules. 

[lianahw4]

@KarenJ2 Thank you very much for the quick reply. Just one follow-up question: is it okay if I remove her from my taxes (not list her as a dependent)? I am okay with this, but just not sure if it's okay (legally?), or if it will be a problem later on down the line in future years. She's my first child and was born this past year, so apologies if this is a silly question. 🙂

[Critter]

Ok ... YES you are NOT required to claim any dependents  HOWEVER if you amend later to add the child back the child credits will NOT be allowed.   If you can you should WAIT to file a return until you get the SS#.  

If you are worried about the stimulus check the IRS will also take your 2018 return into consideration  AND  you will get to reconcile the shortfall on the 2020 return.   So waiting will not hurt but filing without the child definitely will.