Cr1 approved, now

[Abcd1234 102]

So my spouse got cr1 visa, and traveling to U S on 1st April,  given that we may or may not have SSN in hand before April 15. And we can save a lot filing jointly. So i have decided to apply for extension for filing taxes. Now several questions i have, please help what you can and what you know.

 

1) Even though she doesn't have any income in 2019, if we file jointly on lets say april 30, do we need to file an extension for her as well. She doesn't even have SSN so would they say you r filing late and you havnt apply for extension,  she doesn't have any kind of tax no. or ssn. So how does it go please guide.

 

2) Do i need to file for extension with state separately? Or just irs would do it.

 

3) what is the best way to file for extension,  can i do by myself. 

 

4) given our scenario do you have some other suggestion or you think i am thinking right

[BlinkerFluid 7]

If you don't want to wait for an SSN or extension(Extensions are free to file, easy online like Turbotax, etc which you will receive confirmation in about 24 hours), I would suggest you can get her an ITIN (which is a individual tax payer identification number) to file your taxes Jointly as married. This is for foreign spouses married to US Citizens. I just did this for my wife and a couple weeks ago. You need to look up on the IRS website for the IRS acceptance agent in your local area in the USA. You may also be able to find one in outside the USA, depending on your country. You both will need to complete a W-7 for her, and she will need her passport when she meets the ITIN Acceptance agent. Also, you won't be able to receive an ITIN (only) unless you file your taxes simultaneously. My wife and I are towards the end process of CR1, my wife is still in the Philippines, so we completed the W-7 form, she sent me her passport and the agent video chatted with her, and I filed our 2019 taxes. There is a fee the agent charges, anywhere from $75-$150usd for the ITIN certification

 

Hope this helps.

 

Here is the link to the IRS for ITIN Acceptance agents inside and outside the USA:

https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/acceptance-agent-program

Edited March 4, 2020 by MM&HM

[Ryan H 3,812]

Moved from IR-1/CR-1 Process & Procedures to Tax & Finances During US Immigration forum.