If Your E-File has been Rejected by the IRS there is Still Time to Correct and E-File before April 15th - February 2004

You are not alone in having your e-file return rejected, but do not worry, there is still time to correct the issue. The major reason for E-file returns being rejected is that your contact information on the return (based on your social security number) does not match the information recorded with the Social Security Administration (SSA). For example, if you were married this calendar year and you or your spouse changed your name, was it officially changed with the SSA? If you call the IRS on this issue, after waiting on hold for 15-20 minutes you will be told that it is an issue to be discussed with the Social Security Administration (SSA), as the IRS receives all of their information from the SSA database.

 
The Social Security Administration has a web site (www.ssa.gov), but we found that most issues will need to first be addressed by calling them directly at 1-800-772-1213. They will verify with you the information that they have on file. If it is an issue that cannot be resolved over the phone, they will ask you to visit a local office of the Social Security Administration (the web site has a listing of office locations). Please remember to bring your license (or valid picture id), social security card and your birth certificate. Also, based on experience, it is best to get to the office right when they open at 9:00 a.m. to avoid long lines. 

It will take approximately two weeks for the SSA to correct your information. Once the correction has been processed, the IRS should have the updated information as their systems are updated daily. You will receive a new social security card in the mail, which will be the only official form of notification provided to you. You will then be able to e-file. If you are a late filer and do not have at least two weeks to wait before April 15th, you will then need to file a paper return.

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