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Can You File Your Taxes Without a Social Security Number?

Filing an income tax return is mandatory if you make more than a  certain amount for the year. But can you file your taxes without a social security number? Keep reading to discover the answer. 

Can You File Your Taxes Without a Social Security Number?

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a nine-digit number assigned to all United States citizens and other residents for identification purposes, including tracking their income information.

Now, although the Social Security Number is one of the most common ways to identify an individual in the U.S., not  every person living in the country is eligible for one.

In those cases, people who are not eligible for a Social Security Number can use an Individual Tax Identification Number or ITIN. 

So, in short, the answer is yes, you can file your taxes without a Social Security Number by using an ITIN instead.

What Is an ITIN?

As we mentioned earlier, the term ITIN stands for Individual Tax Identification Number. 

An ITIN is a tax processing number that the IRS issues to people who are required to file a tax return but don’t have a Social Security Number.

While you can have an ITIN regardless of your immigration status, you should keep in mind that an ITIN does NOT:

  • Authorize work in the U.S.
  • Provide eligibility for Social Security benefits
  • Qualify a dependent for Earned Income Tax Credit Purposes

How To Know if You Need an ITIN

You need an Individual Tax Identification Number if the following applies to you:

  1. You don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN)
  2. You have a requirement to file a tax return
  3. You belong to one of the following categories:
  • Nonresident alien who is required to file a U.S. tax return
  • U.S. resident alien who is (based on days present in the United States) filing a U.S. tax return
  • Dependent or spouse of a U.S. citizen/resident alien
  • Dependent or spouse of a nonresident alien visa holder
  • Nonresident alien claiming a tax treaty benefit
  • Nonresident alien student, professor or researcher filing a U.S. tax return or claiming an exception

Have Tax Questions? Contact the Experts at JT Tax Services

At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are limiting your liability while staying compliant with all regulations.We are located in Oxnard, California. Contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services.

3 Basic Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Your Taxes

3 Basic Mistakes to Avoid When Filing Your Taxes

As the deadline to file your taxes approaches, it’s important to make sure to file a tax return free of errors. That’s why today we take a closer look at three basic mistakes to avoid when filing your taxes.

1. Sign and Date Your Tax Return

In taxes, as in many other things, getting the basics rights makes everything easier. Be sure to sign and date your tax return before filing it, and don’t forget that if you file your taxes jointly, both spouses must sign and date their tax return.

2. Double-Check Names and Social Security Numbers

Again, basic details are crucial. Remember that all Social Security Numbers (SSN) and names on your return must appear just as they are printed on the Social Security card. Your return must include the name and Social Security number of any person you claim as a depending. If a person you claim on your return is not eligible for a Social Security Number, then include the ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number).

3. Choose the Right Filing Status

Even though everyone knows the importance of accuracy in names and Social Security Numbers, fiiling statuses are les known but equally relevant. Your filing status is a category that determines how much you pay in taxes and your eligibility for certain tax credtis. Below is a list with the five filing statuses.

  • Single
  • Married filing jointly
  • Married filing separately
  • Head of household
  • Qualifying widow(er) with dependent child

As you select your filing status, keep in mind that your marital status on December 31 determines your filing status for the rest of the year.  

As you can see, the five filing statuses are quite straightforward. However, don’t hesitate to seek the assistance of a tax professional should you have any questions about this or any other tax topic

Contact the Experts at JT Tax Services

Do you need help filing your 2020 tax return? Do you want to learn more about Economic Impact Payments? At JT Tax Services, we give you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you are limiting your liability while staying compliant with all regulations.

We are located in Oxnard, California. Contact us today by email (info@jttaxservices.com), telephone (805-984-8890), or through our social media accounts on FacebookTwitter, and LinkedIn to schedule a consultation or to learn more about our services.

We will be closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday (July 2nd - 4th)
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