Identity Theft and Your Tax Return
From Tax Guide.
Tax Guide · Arab, Alabama
Why Was My E-Filed Tax Return Rejected?
A rejected e-file is not the same as an audit. Fix the error, such as an AGI mismatch or a wrong name or number, and file again. Here are the usual causes.
The short answer
Why was my e-filed tax return rejected?
A rejection means the IRS (or the state) refused to accept the electronic return because something did not match, and the fix is to correct the error and send it again.
A rejected return is not an audit, a penalty or a decision on your taxes. The return was never accepted, so as far as the IRS is concerned it has not been filed yet. That matters for deadlines, because a rejected return that is not corrected is still an unfiled return.
The rejection comes with a code and a short message. Those messages can be cryptic, but most rejects come from a small set of causes. The list below covers the ones we see most.
Common causes
What are the most common reasons a return is rejected?
The most common causes are a wrong AGI or identity PIN from last year, a name or Social Security number that does not match government records, and a dependent who was already claimed.
Typing mistakes cause a surprising share of rejects. A transposed digit in a Social Security number, a misspelled last name after a marriage, or a wrong date of birth can all trigger one.
- Prior-year AGI or PIN does not match the IRS records.
- A name and Social Security number that do not match.
- A dependent (or the taxpayer) whose number was already used on another return.
- A missing or mismatched form, such as an employer identification number.
- A return for a spouse who has already filed separately.
- A missing IP PIN when one was assigned.
AGI mismatch
What is an AGI mismatch and how do I fix it?
The IRS asks for your adjusted gross income from last year's return as a way to confirm your identity, and a mismatch happens when the number you entered is not the one the IRS has.
Use the number from your last year's original return, not an amended one. If you have your copy, look at the line for adjusted gross income. If you do not, you can get a transcript from the IRS, or we can help you find it. Some people who did not file last year enter zero, and others use a PIN they created earlier; the software will prompt for what applies.
A common trap is a spouse who filed separately or a different preparer who changed the return. If the number still does not match, the IRS may need you to file on paper. That is slower, but it is a normal path.
Dependents and duplicates
What if my dependent was already claimed on another return?
Someone else has used your dependent's Social Security number, and the reason could be an honest mix-up, a family dispute over who claims a child, or identity theft.
Check first with the other people who might claim the child, such as a former spouse, a grandparent or another relative. If more than one person is entitled to claim, the tie-breaker rules decide, and we can go through them with you. If nobody in the family claimed the child, or the same happens to you, read identity theft and your tax return. The tests for who can claim a child are in dependents and child-related credits.
| Reject message | Usual meaning | Usual fix |
|---|---|---|
| AGI or PIN does not match | Prior-year figure is not what the IRS has | Recheck the original return or get a transcript |
| Name and number mismatch | Spelling or digit does not match SSA records | Correct it; update with SSA if the name changed |
| Duplicate dependent | The number was used on another return | Find out who claimed; may need paper filing |
| Return already filed | Your own number was used | See the identity theft guide |
General patterns. The exact wording varies by reject code.
The deadline
How long do I have to fix a rejected return?
The IRS gives a short window after the deadline to fix and resubmit a rejected return, but do not count on it, because an uncorrected return can be treated as late.
If a rejected return cannot be fixed in time, the safest step is often to request an extension, which gives more time to file. Remember that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay. Our guide on filing late or getting an extension covers the difference.
If you cannot get the electronic return accepted, filing on paper is always an option. Keep a copy of the rejection message and note the date you tried. That record can help if anyone later asks why the return was late.
How we can help
Need help fixing a rejected return?
Our office prepares income tax returns, and we can look at your reject message, correct the return and resubmit it or prepare it for paper filing.
Bring the reject message, last year's return and the documents for the year in question. Please do not send Social Security numbers or documents through the website; bring them to the office or call us at 256-586-4635.
We serve Arab and the surrounding area, and you can contact us with questions.
Answers
Questions about rejected e-file
Is a rejected return the same as an audit?
No. A rejection means the return was not accepted for processing. It is not an audit, and it does not by itself carry a penalty.
Does a rejected return count as filed?
No. A rejected return has not been accepted, so it is not filed until you correct it and it is accepted or you file it on paper.
What AGI do I use if I did not file last year?
Filing software generally prompts for what applies, and the IRS has rules for people who did not file. We can check your situation.
Why was my return rejected for a duplicate Social Security number?
The number was already used on another return. That can be a family disagreement about a child, a data entry error or identity theft.
Can I file on paper instead?
Yes. If the electronic return will not go through, a paper return is an option. It generally takes longer to process.
Will a rejected Alabama return be treated the same way?
Alabama has its own rules, and rejects can happen for similar reasons such as mismatched information. We check the message and fix it.
Read next
Related reading
Who Can I Claim as a Dependent on Taxes?
From Tax Guide.
Missed the Tax Deadline? Late Filing and Extensions
From Tax Guide.
Income Tax Services
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Melton Tax Services
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