My husband is a retired US Navy Lt Commander, and I’m a Filipino citizen living in the Philippines permanently. I don’t have an SSN or ITIN, but I’m registered in DEERS. How can I get my military and medical benefits as his spouse without those numbers? Any advice would be great!
If you don’t have an SSN, you’ll need an alternate ID number to access benefits. There’s a process for this!
Noor said:
If you don’t have an SSN, you’ll need an alternate ID number to access benefits. There’s a process for this!
Thanks! Do you know where I can start with that process?
Noor said:
If you don’t have an SSN, you’ll need an alternate ID number to access benefits. There’s a process for this!
Yeah, check this guide: https://www.quantico.marines.mil/… It walks you through getting an alternate ID number. Hope that helps!
Are you already enrolled in DEERS? That’s usually the first step for accessing spouse benefits.
Jem said:
Are you already enrolled in DEERS? That’s usually the first step for accessing spouse benefits.
Yes, I’m in DEERS. Does that make it easier to get benefits without an SSN?
Jem said:
Are you already enrolled in DEERS? That’s usually the first step for accessing spouse benefits.
For sure! Being in DEERS means you’re already recognized, so the alternate ID process should go smoothly.
Have you reached out to a local military base? They can guide you in person.
Blake said:
Have you reached out to a local military base? They can guide you in person.
No, I haven’t yet. Would they help even if I’m overseas?
Blake said:
Have you reached out to a local military base? They can guide you in person.
Definitely! Start with their ID card center or a family support office. They’re used to assisting spouses overseas.
FYI, TRICARE might have some requirements for spouses without SSNs. It’s good to double-check their policies.
Rafe said:
FYI, TRICARE might have some requirements for spouses without SSNs. It’s good to double-check their policies.
Oh, I didn’t think of that. I’ll look into it—thanks for the tip!
Rafe said:
FYI, TRICARE might have some requirements for spouses without SSNs. It’s good to double-check their policies.
No prob! TRICARE’s website has a FAQ section that might be helpful too.
What’s an ITIN? Sorry if this is a dumb question, lol.
Delaney said:
What’s an ITIN? Sorry if this is a dumb question, lol.
Not dumb at all! It’s an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, kinda like a substitute for an SSN.
Delaney said:
What’s an ITIN? Sorry if this is a dumb question, lol.
Got it, thanks! So it’s mainly for tax stuff?
Delaney said:
What’s an ITIN? Sorry if this is a dumb question, lol.
Exactly. But for military benefits, you might not need one—just an alternate ID number should work.