SSN

[Shadinoredin]

Hello,

my father was doing his taxes to claim his recovery rebate credit and he didn’t seem to find his 2 children’s SSN and we tried to get them but it might take 4-6 months so is there a way to file his taxes without their SSN ?

[xmasbaby0]

No.  You need the children's SSN to claim them as dependents.   He could file for an extension which would give him until October 15.   The form to file for an extension will be available in a week or two.   It is a form 4868.   Meanwhile--not sure why you think it would take so long to get the SSN's.

To Replace a Child’s Social Security card

https://faq.ssa.gov/en-US/Topic/article/KA-02723

[Shadinoredin]

Because I am living abroad and we have no SSA office here (Lebanon) the one we talk to is in Italy, Do you know if we could get ITIN instead and how?

[LeonardS]

If your father's children have been issued social security numbers he may be able to find a copy on a past year's tax returns, school records, medical records, or their SSN card. 

[LeonardS]

Yes, you can apply for an ITIN at the IRS website by downloading Form W-7.  Ref: IRS,  How do I apply for an ITIN?

[Shadinoredin]

Yes but he has been living abroad for about 16 years and he has not filed taxes.

[DianeW777]

You may also contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) to see how you can verify the numbers.

• 1 (800) 772-1213

If you actually have SSNs for the children then a Form W-7 may not actually be the best option. Instructions are provided on applying and then updating with the SSNs.   You can mail the tax return and send a letter of explanation about the children and that you cannot locate the SSNs.  Send proof of the children and that they are at the same address as the taxpayer.  

 How to apply ITIN for child while filing tax return?

The instructions for applying for an ITIN are included here for you.  The tax return should be prepared using 999-99-9999 for the child without an ITIN.  When the return is printed you should remove that number and leave it blank.  The Form W-7 will be attached to the tax return and the IRS will issue the ITIN.  Expect a long period, but as long as you apply for it they will issue it and process the tax return.

• How do I get an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number?
  How do I file with a W-7?

Once you receive a SSN, you must use that number for tax purposes and discontinue using your ITIN.  

It is improper to use both the ITIN and the SSN assigned to the same person to file tax returns.  It is your responsibility to notify the IRS so we can combine all of your tax records under one identification number.  If you do not notify the IRS when you are assigned a SSN, you may not receive credit for all wages paid and taxes withheld which could reduce the amount of any refund due. 

You can visit a local IRS office or write a letter explaining that you have now been assigned a SSN and want your tax records combined.  Include your complete name, mailing address, and ITIN along with a copy of your social security card and a copy of the CP 565, Notice of ITIN Assignment, if available.  The IRS will void the ITIN and associate all prior tax information filed under the ITIN with the SSN. 

Send your letter to: 

     Internal Revenue Service 

     Austin, TX 73301-0057 

• Additional ITIN Information

[Shadinoredin]

Thank you,

Sorry I find it hard to understand, I will try to get it. But is it true in my case I should go for ITIN and not ssn

[RobertB4444]

Not necessarily.  But you should consult with the Social Security office in order to see what they recommend.