Quick overview

An e-file rejection happens when the IRS validation engine finds a problem with your electronically submitted return. Rejections are not audits — they’re simply failures at the IRS intake validation step. Most can be fixed quickly by correcting the specific information called out in the rejection message and re-submitting the return. (See IRS e-file guidance: https://www.irs.gov/e-file.)

Why this matters

A timely fix preserves your refund timeline, prevents duplicate filing headaches, and helps avoid identity-theft traps. Acting quickly also reduces the chance you’ll miss filing deadlines or need to file a paper return under pressure.

Step-by-step action plan when your e-file is rejected

  1. Read the rejection message immediately
  • Your tax software or e-file provider will display a rejection code and short explanation. Save or print that message — it’s your roadmap. Many rejections are specific (e.g., “SSN/name mismatch” or “return already filed”).
  • If the rejection code is generic, open the detailed rejection report from your software. Most packages expose the IRS validation text.
  1. Confirm the exact reason and prioritize fixes

Common causes:

  • Name/SSN mismatch (most frequent). Confirm the spelling and Social Security Number against your Social Security card or SSA records. If you’ve recently changed your name, ensure SSA records reflect that change.
  • Dependent or date-of-birth errors.
  • Duplicate filing (someone — you or another filer — previously sent a return for the same SSN and tax year).
  • Missing or incorrectly completed forms or schedules.
  • Incorrect AGI or prior-year PIN for identity verification.

If the rejection says a prior return was already filed under your SSN, see the identity/theft section below before re-submitting.

  1. Correct the data in your tax software
  • Update only the fields specified by the IRS rejection. Don’t change unrelated items as that can create new errors or trigger additional checks.
  • If your e-file requires practitioner signature authorization, make sure Form 8879 is completed correctly. (See internal guide to Form 8879 — IRS e-file Signature Authorization).
  1. Re-submit electronically right away
  • Most tax software allows an immediate resubmit after correction. Doing this quickly keeps you near the top of the processing queue.
  • If you receive a second rejection, save the new message and follow its guidance. Multiple rejections are usually variations on the same root problem.
  1. If re-submission continues to fail, file on paper (when appropriate)
  • If electronic submission repeatedly fails and the calendar is near the filing deadline, prepare and mail a signed paper return to the appropriate IRS address. Paper filing avoids missing the deadline but takes longer to process.
  1. Keep complete records
  • Save copies of your rejected submission, rejection messages, communications with your software provider, and any amended/resent returns. These records are invaluable if you need to call the IRS or show proof of filing.

Special situations and how to handle them

Name/SSN mismatch

  • Verify information against your Social Security card and SSA records. If SSA records are out of date (for example, you recently changed your name but haven’t updated SSA), correct SSA records first; otherwise your e-file may continue to be rejected.
  • SSA info: https://www.ssa.gov/

Duplicate filing or an accepted return under your SSN

  • If the rejection says a return for your SSN/year was already filed, don’t refile immediately. This can indicate identity theft (someone else filed using your SSN) or that you previously submitted a return — possibly via another software account or by your spouse.
  • If identity theft is possible, follow IRS identity-theft guidance and consider filing Form 14039 (Identity Theft Affidavit). See IRS Identity Theft Central: https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams and our internal FAQ on IRS identity theft and tax account protection.

Missing or invalid forms

  • Some e-file rejections occur because a statement or supporting schedule was not included. Make sure every required form or schedule is present and properly filled. If your preparer submits on your behalf, confirm they included the correct attachments.

Prior-year AGI or PIN verification failures

  • For first-time e-filers or those switching software, the IRS often asks for prior-year AGI or a self-select PIN to verify identity. If you can’t locate your prior-year return, use the IRS Get Transcript tool to obtain your adjusted gross income (AGI): https://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcript.

Refunds and timelines

  • A rejection delays processing. Once your corrected return is accepted, processing resumes. If you mailed a paper return after failed e-file attempts, paper processing takes longer; expect weeks instead of days for a refund.
  • Use IRS tools (Where’s My Refund?, IRS2Go) to track progress: https://www.irs.gov/refunds.

When to contact the IRS, your software provider, or a tax pro

Contact the IRS if:

  • You suspect identity theft and your SSN was used to submit a prior return.
  • You need to verify whether a previously accepted return tied to your SSN is legitimate.

Contact your software or e-file provider if:

  • The rejection looks like a software translation error (form not included, invalid format, truncated attachments).
  • You need help reading technical rejection codes. Many vendors have support teams and merchant accounts with the IRS.

Contact a tax professional if:

  • The rejection involves complex business income, multiple states, or you are unsure which changes will affect other parts of your return.
  • You want help securing identity-theft remediation and correspondence with the IRS.

Practical checklist (copy and use)

  • Save the rejection notice.
  • Identify exact rejection code and text.
  • Compare name/SSN/DOB with SSA records.
  • Check dependent SSNs and birthdates.
  • Confirm prior-year AGI or self-select PIN.
  • Ensure required forms/schedules are attached.
  • Correct only the specified items and re-submit.
  • If rejection persists, consider paper filing and keep proof of mailing.

External authoritative guidance:

Professional tips from practice

  • I always tell clients: double-verify SSNs and names before you file. A quick look at the Social Security card prevents most rejections.
  • If you get a duplicate filing rejection, pause — it’s often the first sign of identity theft. Treat duplicate-filing rejections as higher urgency than other errors.
  • Maintain a single folder (digital and physical) with screenshots of submissions and rejection messages. That file often saves hours on hold with support teams.

When to consider escalation or formal help

  • If you suspect identity theft: submit Form 14039 and follow IRS identity-theft remediation steps immediately.
  • If the IRS accepted a fraudulent return using your SSN, the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit can assist. Keep all documentation and any police reports you file.

Final notes and disclaimer

A rejected e-file is frustrating but fixable. The right first steps are to read the rejection carefully, correct the exact issue, and re-submit promptly. If you suspect identity theft or if technical problems persist, involve the IRS, the software provider, or a qualified tax professional.

This article is educational and general in nature and does not replace personalized tax advice. For specific guidance about your return, consult a CPA, enrolled agent, or the IRS directly.