Troubleshooting Lacerte diagnostic ref. 315 and 316

The IRS requires a valid SSN or ITIN for e-file returns, unless the filing status is MFS and the spouse is indicated as a nonresident alien (NRA). If you haven't entered a SSN for the spouse, the following diagnostic will generate:

• e-file: Spouse's social security number missing. (ref. #315)

If the spouse SSN you enter isn't in the valid range, or you entered NRA in the wrong field, the following diagnostic will generate:

• e-file: Spouse's social security number is invalid. A valid SSN must be between 001-01-0001 through 665-99-9999 and 667-01-0001 through 899-99-9999 or must be a valid ITIN. For more information on valid SSNs... (ref. #316)

You need to enter a valid SSN for the spouse or indicate that they're a nonresident alien to resolve these diagnostics.

Follow these steps to enter a SSN for the spouse:

1. Go to Screen 1, Client Information.
2. Scroll down to the Spouse Information section.
3. Enter the Social Security #.
   • If the SSN is incorrect, correct it now.
   • You shouldn't enter NRA in this field. Use the instructions below to indicate the spouse is a nonresident alien.

Follow these steps to indicate the spouse is a nonresident alien:

1. Go to Screen 3, Miscellaneous Information/Direct Deposit.
2. Under the Miscellaneous section, check the Spouse is a nonresident alien and does not have an SSN/ITIN (MFS only) box.