My wife (F2) and I (F1) live in the US for 5 years. Can we fill tax jointly? She doesn't have a SSN or ITIN.

[LinaJ2018]

When did you both first enter the US?

[julian-andson]

2012 Aug

[LinaJ2018]

Please see answer below.

[LinaJ2018 · Accepted solution]

Yes, you can.  As F-visa holders, you are considered as a nonresident from 2012-2016.  Starting from January 1, 2017, if you meet Substantial Presence Test  SPT, you both will be a resident for tax purposes and can file jointly on a Form 1040. 

As IRS does not accept e-filing for tax returns without a SSN or ITIN, for your spouse, you will have to manually apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number ITIN on a Form W-7 for her.  Please see ITIN.

Although you cannot e-file, you can still use the TurboTax program to prepare your tax return and required forms. Print, attach to the Form W-7 with the required documentation and submit by mail all the paperwork to the IRS Austin location in Texas.

[julian-andson]

However, when I use turbotax, it keep asking me to input the ITIN so I cannot proceed to finish my form.

[LinaJ2018]

As you enter the information, leave the SSN space blank
print out returns and required forms ( write APPLIED in the SSN space) 

[julian-andson]

Thank you very much for the help.

[LinaJ2018]

My pleasure!

[habibabd]

I am on the same situation.  Did you have to mail any document for your wife's W7 form ?