Married in 2019 to a non-citizen

[gsa625]

My wife is a non-citizen.  We've filed for a green card, which includes an application for a work permit and at that point she will have a SS#.

We can't apply for a TIN because that's already in process, but it won't be completed for a few months.

What is my filing status for 2019?   If it's married filing jointly, I can't file without a TIN for her.

[DoninGA]

If you believe she will receive her SSN before April 15, 2020 then wait to file your 2019 tax return so that you can file as Married Filing Jointly. 

Or you can request a 6 month extension using IRS Form 4868 to file the tax return at any time up through October 15, 2020.  This is only an extension to file a tax return, it is not an extension of time to pay any taxes owed.  Taxes owed must be paid on or before April 15, 2020 to avoid a failure to pay penalty.  There are no penalties for filing after the due date if you have a tax refund or there are no taxes owed.

[gsa625]

Thank you so much!  

I want to apologize for not reacting to your post earlier.  I mistakenly thought I would receive an email indicating there was a response.

Thank you so much for responding not once, but twice, with the exact information necessary for me to move forward.

Greg

[LinaJ2020]

You are very welcome! 

[gsa625]

May I follow up?  

My wife just received her Social Security Card. It's stamped "Valid for Work Only with DHS Authorization".  I assume that since it's for work, it will be valid for filing our tax return.  Am I right?

[SusanY1]

Yes, any social security number (whether valid for work or not) is valid for filing your tax return.

@gsa625