[DrDude]

This is all an exercise is shifting the blame. SS numbers have always been required on the tax forms for both these credits. Can’t get the credit unless you fill out the form with ss numbers. Anyone not providing the number would have the form returned. Unless they are criminals and the IRS lets them skate. Just like the IRS sending thousands of refunds to the same address in some shithole in Africa. Then they claim they were scammed out of $Millions. BS. What normal thinking person(s) would send any money to a non US Citizen without checking the bona fides?

[Kickass Conservative]

I thought a Tax ID number could be used instead of an SS number.

[sheana]

The IRS decided many years ago that illegals with an ITIN could file and claim the tax credits. No SSN’s required.
The rule you are talking about is for citizens. Fun huh?!?!

[rxsid]

Form W-7
For use by individuals who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

There's an additional requirement for a taxpayer identification number (SSN or ITIN) to be valid for claiming the Child Tax Credit.
https://www.irs.gov/uac/is-my-child-a-qualifying-child-for-the-child-tax-credit