Ever submitted your tax return, hit "send," and then received that dreaded "Rejected" notification? It can be a moment of pure panic, leaving you wondering, "How many times can the IRS reject my return before I'm in serious trouble?" Well, let's calm those nerves right now!
There's Good News: No Limit on Rejections!
Believe it or not, the IRS doesn't actually limit the number of times they can reject your tax return. Their primary goal is to ensure your return is accurate and complete. Rejections are simply a mechanism for them to tell you, "Hey, there's something here that doesn't match our records, or some information is missing. Please fix it!" This immediate feedback, especially with e-filing, is designed to help you correct errors quickly and get your return accepted.
While there's no cap on rejections, persistent errors can definitely delay your refund and, in some cases, even attract more scrutiny from the IRS. So, while you can resubmit, the aim is to get it right as soon as possible.
Let's dive into a step-by-step guide on what to do if your return is rejected and how to minimize the chances of it happening again.
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| How Many Times Can The Irs Reject Your Return |
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Handling a Rejected Tax Return
Step 1: Don't Panic – It's a Common Occurrence!
So, you've just received a rejection notice. Your heart might be pounding, but take a deep breath. Rejections are incredibly common, especially with electronic filing. It usually means there's a simple discrepancy or a missed piece of information. The IRS wants to get your taxes processed correctly, and this is their way of prompting you to make the necessary corrections. You are not in trouble. This is an opportunity to correct your return and ensure everything is accurate.
Tip: Skim only after you’ve read fully once.
Step 2: Understand Why Your Return Was Rejected
This is the most crucial step. Your rejection notice (usually an email if you e-filed) will almost always include a rejection code and a brief explanation. Do not ignore this! This information is your roadmap to fixing the problem.
Common Reasons for Rejection:
- Mismatched Personal Information:
- Incorrect Social Security Number (SSN): This is perhaps the most frequent culprit. Even a single digit typo can lead to a rejection.
- Name Discrepancy: Your name on the tax return must exactly match what the Social Security Administration (SSA) has on file. This is particularly relevant if you've recently married, divorced, or legally changed your name and haven't updated it with the SSA.
- Incorrect Date of Birth: Another simple data entry error that can cause a rejection.
- Previously Accepted Return: This can be alarming! It means a return has already been filed using your SSN or Tax Identification Number (TIN).
- You already filed: Sometimes people forget they already filed, or a spouse filed independently.
- Identity Theft/Fraud: In more serious cases, this could indicate that someone else has fraudulently filed a return using your information.
- Dependent Claimed on Another Return: If you're claiming a dependent who has also been claimed on another taxpayer's return (e.g., in a divorce situation, or if a child files their own return and claims themselves).
- Electronic Signature Mismatch: When e-filing, the IRS verifies your identity using your prior year's Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) or an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN). If the AGI you entered doesn't match their records, or your IP PIN is incorrect, your return will be rejected.
- Omitted or Incorrect Forms/Information: Missing a required form, failing to report all income sources (like freelance income not tied to a W-2), or errors in Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) for businesses.
- Filing Status Errors: Choosing an incorrect filing status can lead to rejection if it doesn't align with the IRS's records for your SSN.
Step 3: Correct the Errors
Once you've identified the reason for the rejection, it's time to make the corrections.
Sub-heading: For Simple Data Entry Errors (Most Common Scenarios)
If the rejection is due to a typo in an SSN, name, birth date, AGI, or a missing form that should have been included:
- Go back to your tax software: Most tax software (like TurboTax, H&R Block, etc.) will guide you directly to the field that caused the rejection.
- Carefully review and correct: Double-check the entire relevant section. For SSNs and names, compare them exactly to your Social Security card. For AGI, refer to your previous year's tax return.
- Ensure consistency: Make sure the corrected information is consistent across all relevant forms and schedules within your return.
Sub-heading: For More Complex Issues (Identity Theft, Dependent Disputes)
If your return was rejected because someone else already filed using your SSN, or because a dependent was claimed by another party:
QuickTip: The more attention, the more retention.
- Do NOT attempt to re-e-file the same return. The system will continue to reject it.
- Print and mail your return: In these situations, the IRS generally requires you to file a paper return.
- Include a statement: Attach a brief letter explaining the situation.
- Complete IRS Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit): If you suspect identity theft, this form is crucial. It informs the IRS of the potential fraud.
- Gather supporting documentation: For dependent disputes, collect documents that prove your right to claim the dependent (e.g., custody agreements, proof of residency).
- Be prepared for a delay: These cases often require investigation by the IRS and can take significantly longer to process (sometimes up to 6 months or more).
Step 4: Re-submit Your Return
Once you've corrected the errors, it's time to re-submit.
Sub-heading: E-filing Your Corrected Return
For most common rejections (typos, AGI errors, etc.), you can simply re-transmit your return electronically through your tax software.
- Timeliness is key: If your original return was rejected before the filing deadline (typically April 15th), you usually have until the deadline to fix and re-file electronically.
- Rejection Grace Period: If your e-filed return is rejected on or just after the filing deadline, the IRS often grants a "rejection grace period" (usually 5 days) to correct and re-transmit it electronically. This helps ensure your return is still considered timely filed. Check with your tax software or the IRS for the exact grace period details for your specific situation.
Sub-heading: Mailing Your Corrected Return (When E-file Isn't an Option)
If e-filing isn't possible (due to identity theft, complex dependent issues, or if the grace period has passed):
- Print your entire return: Make sure it's the corrected version.
- Sign and date: This is a crucial step that many people forget. Both spouses must sign a joint return.
- Write "Rejected Electronic Return - (Date of Rejection)" in red at the top: This clearly flags the return for the IRS.
- Include the original rejection notification: This helps the IRS understand the context.
- Provide a brief explanation: A short note detailing the errors corrected and the actions you took.
- Attach all necessary forms: W-2s, 1099s, and any other supporting documentation.
- Mail it to the correct IRS address: The address depends on your location and the type of return. You can find this on the IRS website or in your tax software instructions.
- Consider certified mail: This provides proof of mailing and delivery, which can be helpful if there are any future questions.
Step 5: Track Your Return's Status
After resubmitting, whether electronically or by mail, keep an eye on its status.
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
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- "Where's My Refund?" Tool: If you're expecting a refund, use the IRS's "Where's My Refund?" tool on IRS.gov. It's updated daily and can tell you if your return has been received, approved, and when your refund will be issued.
- IRS Online Account: You can also create or sign in to your IRS online account to view your tax information, including your return status and account transcripts.
Related FAQ Questions
Here are 10 related FAQs, starting with "How to," with their quick answers:
How to check the status of my rejected tax return?
You typically receive an email notification from your tax software or the IRS with a rejection code and explanation. If you e-filed, you can also log back into your tax software to see the rejection reason.
How to fix a rejected tax return due to an AGI mismatch?
Verify your prior year's Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) from your previous tax return or your IRS online account. Enter the exact AGI into your current year's tax software for e-signature verification.
How to correct a rejected return when a dependent is claimed by someone else?
You cannot re-e-file. You must print and mail a paper return, including supporting documentation proving your right to claim the dependent (e.g., custody agreements, proof of residency).
QuickTip: Slowing down makes content clearer.
How to re-file a rejected tax return after the filing deadline?
If your e-filed return was rejected on or around the deadline, you typically have a 5-day grace period to correct and re-transmit electronically. If that period passes, or if it's a paper return rejection, you'll need to mail a corrected paper return with an explanation and a copy of the rejection notice.
How to proceed if my tax return was rejected due to suspected identity theft?
Do not attempt to re-e-file. Print and mail your return along with IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit. Be prepared for an investigation by the IRS, which can take several months.
How to find my IP PIN if I'm supposed to use one for e-filing?
Your Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) is mailed to you by the IRS each year. If you've lost it or didn't receive it, you can retrieve it online through your IRS account or request a new one.
How to ensure my name and SSN match IRS records to avoid rejection?
Always use the name exactly as it appears on your Social Security card. If you've had a name change (marriage, divorce), ensure you've updated it with the Social Security Administration before filing your tax return.
How to avoid common e-file rejection errors in the future?
Double-check all personal information (SSNs, names, dates of birth), verify your prior year's AGI, report all income, and ensure all necessary forms are included before submitting your return. Consider using IRS Free File tools or tax professionals for assistance.
How to mail a corrected paper return after an e-file rejection?
Print the corrected return, sign and date it, write "Rejected Electronic Return - [Date of Rejection]" in red at the top, include a copy of the rejection notice and a brief explanation, attach all supporting documents, and mail it to the appropriate IRS address.
How to get help if I'm still having trouble with a rejected return?
Contact your tax software provider's support, consult a qualified tax professional (like a CPA or Enrolled Agent), or call the IRS directly at 1-800-829-1040 for assistance.
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