How Do I Know if My Spouse Needs an ITIN?
If you have a Social Security number or individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN), your spouse will need an ITIN so that you can file a joint U.S. income tax return. Otherwise, your tax status will be married filing separately, which typically increases your tax burden. An ITIN is also required if your husband or wife is not eligible for a Social Security number and earns income in the United States. With ITIN W7 Application, it's easy to get an ITIN number online.
When a Spousal ITIN Is Required
ITINs are used by the IRS to identify you for tax purposes. If you are a U.S. citizen and your spouse is a resident or non-resident alien, he or she will need an ITIN so that you can file taxes jointly as a married couple. If your spouse earns income in the U.S., he or she will also need an ITIN to file taxes if he or she is either a resident or nonresident alien or is otherwise not eligible for a Social Security number.
How to Get an ITIN
Your spouse can easily apply for an ITIN number online. Once the form is complete, you must print it out and submit it along with your tax return. He or she will also need to submit copies of supporting documents with your ITIN number application. These can include a passport, photo ID, birth certificate, visa, or another document that is approved by the IRS. Unless your spouse submits a passport, he or she will need to show one document that proves your identity and another that indicates foreign status.
Get the ITIN process started with ITIN W7 Document Preparation by accessing our W-7 form instructions. We will walk you through the application process and offer assistance in both English and Spanish through chat and email.
