Facing a rejected tax return can be a frustrating experience, especially when you're diligently trying to meet your tax obligations. But don't panic! It's a common occurrence, and the good news is that most rejections are due to simple, correctable errors. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to contact the IRS about a rejected tax return, step-by-step, and equip you with the knowledge to resolve the issue efficiently.
Has Your Tax Return Been Rejected? Let's Figure It Out Together!
First things first: how did you find out your return was rejected? Did you receive an email, a notification from your tax software, or a letter in the mail? Understanding the initial communication is key to knowing your next moves. Most e-filed rejections happen quickly, often within 24-48 hours of submission. Paper returns take much longer to process, and a rejection notice for a paper return will come via mail.
Let's dive into the process of contacting the IRS and getting your tax return back on track.
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| How To Contact Irs About Rejected Tax Return |
Step 1: Understand Why Your Return Was Rejected – The Rejection Code is Your Clue!
The most important piece of information you need is the reason for the rejection. When an e-filed return is rejected, your tax software or e-file provider will typically provide a specific rejection code and a brief explanation. This code is your roadmap to resolution.
Common Reasons for Rejection:
- Mismatched Personal Information: This is the most frequent culprit. It means the Social Security Number (SSN), name, or date of birth you entered for yourself, your spouse, or a dependent does not match what the IRS or Social Security Administration (SSA) has on file. Even a small typo can trigger this.
- Example Rejection Codes: R0000-500-01 (Primary SSN/name mismatch), R0000-503-02 (Spouse SSN/name mismatch), IND-525 (Date of birth mismatch).
- Previously Accepted Return: This occurs if a return has already been filed with your SSN for the current tax year. This could mean you accidentally filed twice, or, in more serious cases, it could indicate identity theft.
- Example Rejection Codes: R0000-902-01, IND-510.
- Dependent Claimed on Another Return: If a dependent you've claimed is also claimed on another person's return (e.g., in cases of divorced parents), your return will be rejected.
- Example Rejection Codes: R0000-507-01, SEIC-F1040-521-02.
- Incorrect Prior Year's Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) or Identity Protection (IP) PIN: For security purposes, when e-filing, you might need to verify your identity using your prior year's AGI or an assigned IP PIN. If this information is incorrect, your return will be rejected.
- Example Rejection Codes: IND-031-03 (AGI mismatch), IND-180-01 (IP PIN mismatch).
- Missing or Incomplete Information: Any required fields left blank, or forms not properly completed, can lead to a rejection.
- Employer Identification Number (EIN) Mismatch: If you're reporting income from a Form 1099, the EIN listed might not match IRS records.
Action Step: Locate your rejection notice and identify the specific rejection code and its explanation. Write it down. This will be crucial for any communication with the IRS.
Step 2: Attempt to Correct and Resubmit Electronically (Your First Line of Defense!)
In most cases, a rejected e-filed return can be easily corrected and resubmitted electronically. This should always be your first course of action.
Tip: Break it down — section by section.
Sub-heading: Reviewing and Correcting the Error
- Access Your Tax Software/Provider: Log back into the tax software or online platform you used to prepare your return.
- Navigate to the Rejection Details: There should be a section or prompt that details the rejection. Click on it.
- Identify the Error: The software will typically highlight the specific field(s) that caused the rejection, based on the rejection code.
- For personal information mismatches (SSN, name, DOB): Double-check every character against your official Social Security card and other government documents. Even a hyphen or apostrophe can matter. If you suspect the SSA has incorrect information, you may need to contact them before contacting the IRS.
- For AGI/IP PIN issues: Verify your prior year's AGI. You can often find this on a copy of your previous year's return or by accessing your IRS online account (if you have one). If you have an IP PIN, ensure you've entered it correctly.
- For dependent issues: Confirm the dependent's information is correct. If they were claimed on another return, you'll need to resolve that with the other party or file a paper return if you believe you have the right to claim them.
- For missing information: Go through your return carefully and fill in any blanks.
- Make the Corrections: Edit the incorrect information directly in your tax software.
- Review Your Entire Return: Before resubmitting, take the time to thoroughly review your entire return one more time. A fresh pair of eyes (or even just your own, carefully looking) can catch other unnoticed errors.
Sub-heading: Resubmitting Your Corrected Return
Once you're confident you've corrected the error:
- Initiate E-File Again: Follow your software's prompts to re-file your federal (and state, if applicable) return electronically.
- Confirmation: You should receive a new confirmation that your return has been transmitted.
- Check for Acceptance: Monitor your email or log back into your tax software within 24-48 hours to confirm acceptance.
Important Note on Deadlines: If your original return was e-filed by the tax deadline and rejected, the IRS generally gives you an additional five calendar days after the rejection notice to correct and resubmit electronically. If you can't get it accepted electronically within this timeframe, you'll need to file a paper return.
Step 3: If Electronic Resubmission Fails or Isn't an Option – Mail a Paper Return
If you've attempted to correct and resubmit electronically and it continues to be rejected, or if your initial rejection was for a reason that prevents e-filing (like suspected identity theft where the IRS advises paper filing), then mailing a paper return is your next step.
Sub-heading: Preparing Your Paper Return for Mailing
- Print Your Corrected Return: Print a complete copy of your corrected tax return from your tax software.
- Sign and Date: Manually sign and date your tax return in blue or black ink. If it's a joint return, both spouses must sign.
- Attach Required Documents:
- Include a copy of the rejection notification you received. This is crucial for the IRS to understand the context.
- Attach all necessary supporting documents, such as Forms W-2, 1099s, and any other income statements or schedules. Do not staple them to your return.
- If the rejection was due to an IP PIN issue and you received a new IP PIN, include the letter with the new PIN.
- Write "Rejected Electronic Return - (Date)" on Top: Clearly write this phrase in red ink at the top of the first page of your Form 1040. Include the date of the original e-file rejection. This flags your return for proper processing.
- Assemble Your Return: Arrange your forms in the order specified in the IRS instructions for Form 1040.
- Make Copies: Always make a complete copy of your entire tax return and all supporting documents for your records before mailing.
Sub-heading: Where to Mail Your Paper Return
The mailing address depends on your state of residence and whether you're including a payment. You can find the correct mailing address in the instructions for Form 1040 on the IRS website (IRS.gov).
Action Step: Use certified mail with a return receipt when sending your paper return. This provides proof that you mailed it and that the IRS received it. This is invaluable if there are future disputes.
Step 4: When to Directly Contact the IRS
While self-correction and paper filing cover most situations, there are times when direct contact with the IRS is necessary.
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
Sub-heading: When to Call the IRS
You should consider calling the IRS if:
- You've received a rejection notice but don't understand the rejection code or how to fix the error.
- You suspect identity theft as the reason for the rejection (e.g., someone else filed using your SSN).
- You've tried to correct and resubmit electronically multiple times without success.
- Your situation is complex or doesn't fit the common rejection scenarios.
- You need to verify information the IRS has on file (e.g., your AGI or IP PIN).
IRS Phone Number for Individual Tax Questions:
- 1-800-829-1040 (for individuals)
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time.
- Be Prepared for Long Wait Times: The IRS call lines can be extremely busy, especially during tax season. Be patient and have all your information ready before you call.
Tips for Calling the IRS:
- Have everything ready: Your rejection notice, a copy of your tax return, your SSN, and any relevant documents.
- Call early in the morning or late in the afternoon: These times often have shorter wait times.
- Be clear and concise: Explain your situation clearly and refer to your rejection code.
- Take notes: Write down the date and time of your call, the name of the representative you speak with, and a summary of the conversation and any instructions given.
Sub-heading: Visiting an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC)
For in-person help, you can visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC). However, you generally need an appointment.
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- Find Your Local TAC: Use the "Contact Your Local Office" tool on IRS.gov to find the closest TAC, their hours of operation, and the services they provide.
- Schedule an Appointment: You typically need to call 844-545-5640 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are often not accommodated.
- What to Bring:
- A current government-issued photo ID.
- Your Social Security card or ITIN.
- A copy of your rejected tax return and the rejection notice.
- Any supporting tax documents (W-2s, 1099s, etc.).
- Any correspondence from the IRS.
When to Consider a TAC Visit: A TAC visit is best for complex issues, when you need to verify your identity in person, or when you've exhausted other options and need direct assistance from an IRS representative.
Step 5: Consider the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS)
If you've tried to resolve the issue with the IRS through the regular channels and are experiencing significant delays, financial hardship, or believe the IRS is not following its own procedures, the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) can help. TAS is an independent organization within the IRS that assists taxpayers.
Tip: Don’t skip the details — they matter.
Sub-heading: When to Contact TAS
You might contact TAS if:
- You've been unable to get your rejected return processed, and it's causing significant financial hardship.
- You've repeatedly contacted the IRS about the rejection, but the issue remains unresolved.
- You believe your taxpayer rights are being violated.
How to Contact TAS:
- Online: Visit TaxpayerAdvocate.IRS.gov.
- Phone: 1-877-777-4778.
- Mail: You can find the address for your local Taxpayer Advocate office on the TAS website.
Action Step: If you reach out to TAS, be prepared to provide a detailed history of your attempts to resolve the issue with the IRS, including dates, names of representatives you spoke with, and copies of any correspondence.
Key Considerations and Important Reminders
- Do Not File a Second Electronic Return Without Correction: If your return is rejected, do not simply try to e-file the exact same uncorrected return again. It will be rejected again, and in some cases, multiple attempts can lead to further complications.
- Keep Meticulous Records: Document every step: dates of rejection, rejection codes, corrections made, dates of resubmission, dates of mailing (with tracking), and details of any phone calls or in-person visits (date, time, representative name, summary of discussion). This paper trail is invaluable.
- Monitor Your Refund Status (if applicable): Once you've successfully resubmitted your return, you can use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool (IRS.gov/refunds) or the IRS2Go mobile app to track your refund status. Remember, it can take up to 21 days for e-filed refunds and significantly longer for paper returns.
- Be Wary of Scams: The IRS will never contact you by email, text message, or social media to demand immediate payment or threaten legal action regarding a rejected return. Any such contact is a scam. The IRS communicates primarily by mail.
By following these steps, understanding the reasons for rejection, and knowing how to effectively communicate with the IRS, you can navigate the process of a rejected tax return with confidence and get your tax affairs in order.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check the status of my rejected tax return?
You cannot "check the status of a rejected tax return" in the same way you check for an accepted return. Instead, your tax software or e-file provider will notify you of the rejection. Once you've corrected and successfully resubmitted, you can then use the IRS "Where's My Refund?" tool (for refunds) or your IRS Online Account to track the processing of your accepted return.
How to find my IRS rejection code?
Your tax software or e-file provider will typically display the rejection code directly in the notification or within your account dashboard where you view your filing status. It's usually a combination of letters and numbers (e.g., R0000-500-01).
QuickTip: Read line by line if it’s complex.
How to correct a rejected tax return due to SSN mismatch?
Access your tax software, navigate to the personal information section, and carefully compare the SSN, name, and date of birth for yourself, your spouse, and any dependents against your official Social Security cards. Correct any discrepancies, then resubmit electronically. If your Social Security card information itself is incorrect, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) first.
How to resubmit a rejected e-filed tax return?
Log back into your tax software or online filing platform, identify the error highlighted by the rejection code, make the necessary corrections, and then follow the prompts to re-file your return electronically. There is usually no additional fee for resubmitting a rejected return.
How to mail a paper return after an e-file rejection?
Print your corrected tax return, sign it, attach all supporting documents (W-2s, 1099s, etc.), and most importantly, include a copy of the original rejection notice. Write "Rejected Electronic Return - (Date of Rejection)" in red ink at the top of Form 1040. Mail it to the appropriate IRS address (found in Form 1040 instructions), ideally using certified mail with a return receipt.
How to contact the IRS by phone about a rejected return?
You can call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 (for individuals) between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. Have your rejection notice, SSN, and all relevant tax documents ready before you call.
How to find an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) near me?
Visit the "Contact Your Local Office" tool on IRS.gov. You'll need to call 844-545-5640 to schedule an appointment before visiting.
How to get help if I suspect identity theft caused my rejection?
If you suspect identity theft, contact the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit immediately at 1-800-908-4490. You may also consider filing an Identity Theft Affidavit (Form 14039). The IRS may advise you to paper file your corrected return.
How to know if my resubmitted tax return was accepted?
After resubmitting electronically, monitor your email for an acceptance notification from your tax software or e-file provider. You can also log back into your account to check the updated filing status, which should change from "Rejected" to "Accepted."
How to contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) for a rejected return?
If you're facing significant financial hardship or ongoing unresolved issues with your rejected return, you can contact the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) at 1-877-777-4778 or visit their website at TaxpayerAdvocate.IRS.gov.
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