[thomasofe]

Can I file jointly if wife is from philippines and doesn't have a ssn

[MukatA]

Are you a U.S. citizen or resident? If yes, yes you can file jointly.
Read Your U.S. Tax Return: Filing Status for Married

[Five Rings]

Yes indeed, you may file jointly but you will have to jump through some hoops first.

1. You will have to file a Form W-7 to get your wife an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN). Follow the directions closely. Check box e and don't forget to write in your name and SS number.

2. Make out your tax return as if you were Married Filing Jointly. Your wife must also sign it.

3. Then you will make what is called "The 6013(g) election" where your wife agrees to be treated as a US citizen for tax purposes and report her worldwide income. It may take this form:

We declare that one spouse was a non-resident alien, and the other spouse a U.S. citizen, or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) on the last day of the tax year 200 , and we choose to be treated as U.S. residents for the entire year and;

Our names, addresses, and social security/ taxpayer identification numbers are as follows:
(put that information in). Of course your wife will not yet have a number.

Then both of you sign it.

Now, you take the W-7 and all supporting documents, the 6013(g) election form, and your tax return and mail it to:

Internal Revenue Service
ITIN Operation
P.O. Box 149342
Austin, TX 78714-9342