Summary
During the tax filing season, some Americans find their tax returns rejected by the IRS. Common reasons for rejection include mistakes such as incorrect personal details or filing under an already-used Social Security number. Correcting these errors quickly is important to ensure timely processing and refunds.
Key Facts
- Nearly 18 million electronically filed tax returns were rejected by the IRS in 2024.
- A rejected return is not considered filed, making it important to fix issues before the April 15 deadline.
- Common issues for rejection include incorrect Social Security numbers, missing forms, and name mismatches.
- Taxpayers generally find out if their return is rejected within 24 to 48 hours of submission.
- If rejected electronically, a paper return must be postmarked by either the original due date or 10 days after rejection notice, whichever is later, to be considered timely.
- Some returns are rejected if the same Social Security number or taxpayer ID has already been used, indicating possible fraud or identity theft.
- Errors in electronic signatures, such as unmatched adjusted gross income from the prior year, can also cause rejections.
- In cases of potential identity theft, the IRS advises filing Form 14039 and may recommend adding a fraud alert with credit bureaus.
