I filed electronically and my tax return was rejected. What do I do now?

If your electronically filed tax return was rejected, follow these steps to address the issue:

1. Identify the Reason for Rejection:
   • You should receive an explanation of why your return was rejected. This could be due to errors such as incorrect social security numbers, payer's identification numbers, omitted forms, or misspelled names.
2. Correct Simple Errors:
   • If the rejection is due to a simple mistake, such as a typo or missing information, correct the error and resubmit the return electronically. This usually resolves the issue.
3. Handling Specific Rejections:
   • If the rejection is due to an exemption claimed on another taxpayer’s return, verify the social security number. If correct, and you believe you are entitled to the exemption, you must file a paper return with Form 8948 attached, explaining the reason for not filing electronically.
4. Transmission Perfection Period:
   • You have a 10-day Transmission Perfection Period to correct and retransmit the return electronically. If the return is accepted within this period, it will be considered filed on the date of the first rejection.
5. Filing a Paper Return:
   • If the error cannot be corrected electronically, you must file a paper return. Ensure the paper return is postmarked by the later of the due date of the return or ten calendar days after the IRS notifies you of the rejection.
   • Include an explanation of why the paper return is being filed, a copy of the reject notification, and a brief history of actions taken to correct the electronic return. Write "REJECTED ELECTRONIC RETURN – [DATE]" in red at the top of the first page of the paper return.
6. Retain Documentation:
   • Keep copies of the submission receipt, the rejected transmission file, and the rejected acknowledgment for your records. These documents can serve as proof of the originally transmitted data in case of disputes.
7. Seek Assistance if Needed:
   • If you have further questions or need assistance, you can call the IRS at 800-829-1040 or the e-help Desk at 1-866-255-0654.

By following these steps, you can address the rejection of your electronically filed tax return and ensure it is properly filed and processed.

Sources:
Publication 17 (2023)
Publication 4163 (12/2023)
Publication 1345 (11/2023)