Why get an SSN?

[borkwater 4]

My now husband is here having entered on a K-1 visa and has not had any issues so far regarding his lack of SSN. Can anyone tell us what, if any, reasons we could have for needing one prior to his EAD coming through?

All the forums say get one but we've not found anyone stating why. Can you help?

[Transborderwife 4,666]

Adding on to accounts are a huge reason

[Georgia16 2,858]

If you needed to be added to account, medical insurance and so on they will need your SSN number.

[teeak 224]

Some states need a social security card to apply for a state ID or driver's license.

You can also add him on your tax returns as a joint filer. Otherwise, he'll need to receive an ITIN.

Edited February 2, 2016 by teeak

[aaron2020 11,651]

File a joint tax return.

[racheal&david 108]

He's going to need one eventually so why not just get it done and out of the way now while you're waiting.

[newacct 688]

File a joint tax return.

SSN is not necessary to file tax returns, but if you don't have and can't get an SSN you have to get an ITIN which is a big pain.

Edited February 3, 2016 by newacct

[aaron2020 11,651]

SSN is not necessary to file tax returns, but if you don't have and can't get an SSN you have to get an ITIN which is a big pain.

I didn't say it was necessary.

A good reason to get the SSN is to file a joint return electronically rather then deal with the hassle of filing with an ITIN which requires a paper return. It's much faster to get a refund when filing electronically over a paper return.