MFS Filing Status on 2005 return

[Janitor Bob]

Trying to file 2005 taxes for new client. I know he will not get the refund, but need to get it filed so he can get refund for 2006. Problem is this....client was technically married at end of 2005 although he and his ex-wife seperated in october 2005.

Client has not spoken to wife since November 2005, so does not know how/if she filed her 2005 return, but since he has received letters from IRS about non-filing, I assume she filed as MFS.

The problem is that my client does not know his ex-wifes social security number, nor does he have any idea how to find it or how to contact the ex-wife.

How do I correctly file him as MFS without spouse's SSN?

[Pacun]

I would itemize deductions and file as MFS without the social security number. Do not efile this return (lol)

[Margaret CPA in OH]

Wouldn't the client have a 2004 or earlier return with her number on it? If not, you or client can request a copy of a jointly filed return from a prior year from IRS.

[Lion EA]

Back many years, SSNs also appeared on health insurance claims, checks, and other documents. With POA, try for a joint return on e-Services.

[Janitor Bob]

Wouldn't the client have a 2004 or earlier return with her number on it? If not, you or client can request a copy of a jointly filed return from a prior year from IRS.

No prior year information to look at...They Met in late 2004...Married in May 2005...seperated in Nov. 2005, divorced in Feb 2006

[jasdlm]

JB - - where in the Friggin' world have you been?

[Margaret CPA in OH]

Jasdim, I believe the correct term on this board is "frikkin." Unless of course you have a different meaning by "Friggin." But yeah! Where has he been? He'll likely say working but who really knows?