J1 resident alien how can I claim my J2 kids as dependents

[fmkey]

My family (J1/J2) turned resident alien for the tax year 2020 based on the substantial presence test after we arrived mid 2018. However, TurboTax does not allow me to claim my kids as dependents because they did never receive a SSN. Is there any way I can claim them as dependents without a SSN?

If no, do I need to file (federal/state MA) anything specific for my kids (I am confused because as nonresident alien I had to file Form 8843 for each child).

[LinaJ2020 · Accepted solution]

In order to claim your children as your dependents, they need to have either a SSN or ITIN.  

Without a SSN or ITIN, you cannot e-file.  You would need to submit your taxes and apply for ITIN simultaneously with TurboTax program: 

• In the program, as you enter the information, leave the SSN space blank
• After entering all your information, print out returns and required forms ( write APPLIED in the SSN space) 
• As TurboTax does not support the Form W-7, fill out the forms by following
•  https://www.irs.gov/Individuals/General-ITIN-Information and attach to other required  documentation
• Submit everything including your tax forms to IRS Austin location in Texas.  ( Form W-7 instructions)