In the same boat. IRS told me the same thing- ss not valid for employment.  Checked the law to see what it says and it states that  an eligible individual must include a ‘valid identification number (numbers for jont return’ .  A valid number means ‘a social security number’. There is no requirement in the law that the ss number be ‘valid for employment’.  This is a fabrication of the Dept of Treasury in an attempt to make sure illegal immigrants cannot get money. I understand that the gov does not want this, but  I cannot believe their are many ineligible individuals who have ss numbers.  Most n this category  file taxes with ITIN. I have filed taxes 25 years with ss number. That to me make it valid.