This is my first year filing and I am not entitled to an SSN. Does anybody know if i need to apply for my Tax Number before I file or when i file. I think it is when but my hubby is convined it is the other way round.

HELP!

You haven't really told us enough info to help you. Is hubby a USC? If so, you'll file on his SSN, with a simultaneous application for an ITIN for you.

That said, we do have a resident tax expert here, and I'm sure he'll be along in a bit to correct what I've got wrong (which isn't meant sarcastically - I'm most definitely not an expert).

Need more info:

You say you aren't entitled to an SSN. So that means you aren't working.....right? In which case why do you need to file? Or is your husband wanting to file as 'marrid filing jointly'?

Might Be H4

Assuming it's something like this where you're doing married filing jointly and need an ITIN for the tax form, you fill out the tax return, staple the application for the ITIN (W-7) to the front of the tax return, and then either

1. Send them to a specific ITIN processing office in TX
2. Take them to an "acceptance agent" - certain accountants etc. that have registered to do this
3. Take them in person to an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center

together with original or notarized copies of documents demonstrating foreign status and identity.

We did #3 - it was very easy - they photocopy your ID documents and stick a rubber stamp on your forms then send it all off. Takes a few weeks/months after that to get to the point where your tax return is processed.

Full details at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw7.pdf