u.s. expat tax guide – ireland
Do you need to include your Irish spouse on your US tax return?
No, you generally do not need to include your Irish spouse on your US tax return unless you decide to file jointly.
When should you provide more details about your Irish spouse?
If you choose to file a joint tax return with your Irish spouse, you’ll need to provide more details about their income and finances.
They will also need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if they don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN).
To get an ITIN, you must file Form W-7 with the IRS.
Why might it be beneficial to include your spouse on your tax return?
- Claiming the child tax credit refund: This can give you extra financial support if you qualify.
- Filing a joint tax return: If one spouse earns more than the other, filing jointly might reduce your tax bill.
- Accessing additional tax credits: You might be eligible for other credits, like the earned income tax credit (EITC), which can be higher for joint filers.
- Taking advantage of a tax treaty: Some tax treaties between the US and Ireland require you to include your spouse’s information to claim benefits.
However, remember that including your spouse will mean they must report their worldwide income to the US.
Can you get the child tax credit refund for children who are not US citizens?
No, the child tax credit refund is only available for children who are US citizens.
Your children must have US citizenship, a Social Security Number, and be under 17 years old to qualify.
What if your children are US citizens but you aren’t working in Ireland?
If you’re not earning an income in Ireland, you probably won’t be able to claim the child tax credit refund.
However, if your spouse is working and they are not a US citizen, you may be able to include them on your US tax return to qualify for the refund.
This situation is common when one parent stays home and the other works.
