ITIN -- not applicable. Why do I need one?

[Mukatsuku]

Hi, folks.  New to this forum.

I am an American living in Japan.  I tried to file my US taxes, but was rejected because I don't have an ITIN for my wife.

My wife is Japanese, lives and works in Japan, pays taxes in Japan and has no reason to have an ITIN.  Why can I not file using Turbo Tax without an ITIN for her?

TIA,

Mukatsuku

[Mukatsuku]

From the first page of the Form W-7 instructions:

What’s New
ITINs for spouses and dependents who reside outside of
the United States. Spouses and dependents residing outside
of the United States shouldn’t apply for, or renew, an individual
taxpayer identification number (ITIN) unless they qualify for an
allowable tax benefit.

[ee-ea]

You can file Married Filing Separately See this FAQ  https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/married/help/is-it-better-for-a-married-couple-to-file-jointly-or-...

Info on the ITIN is here 

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/irs-tax-return/who-needs-an-itin-or-individual-tax-identificati...

[ee-ea]

Allowable tax benefit.

1. Married filing joint tax rate
2. Foreign  earned income exclusion
3. Foreign tax credit

[Mukatsuku]

Thanks, Champ!

Unfortunately, no new information there.

I'm hoping that someone can give some new info. Preferably someone from INTUIT...

[Mukatsuku]

I just spoke with "Ester" on the phone. She wouldn't give me an email or phone number where I could contact her.  She was 100% UNhelpful.  I don't trust Turbo Tax at all.  I will be contacting everyone I know to avoid Turbo Tax.  I urge you to NOT trust them.  

Good luck and good health to all.

Mukatsuku

[Mukatsuku]

I spoke with 3 representatives, including a supervisor who calls herself Tobi.  None could help me.  Tobi was exceptionally rude.  I have put in for a refund.

I am done with this now.

Good luck and good health to you all.

Mukatsuku