Why did I get this rejection?
When you e-file, the IRS uses your prior-year adjusted gross income (AGI) to confirm your identity.
This rejection means the AGI entered for you or your spouse doesn’t match what the IRS has on file. Once you enter the correct AGI, you can resubmit your return.
How to fix the rejection in april
If your return was rejected, you can make changes and resubmit it directly in april, the tax filing app you’re using.
Go to your april account
On the Tax home screen, select Make updates
Review the message(s) explaining why your return was rejected
Select Update my info to fix each issue listed
Check the info carefully to prevent any other rejections
Continue making any other needed changes, then resubmit your return when you’re done
That’s it. As long as your return was rejected (not accepted), you can edit it before resubmitting.
Check your AGI from last year’s return
Start by confirming the prior-year adjusted gross income (AGI) the IRS has on file.
•Use your original, accepted tax return from last year—not an amended return
•Find your AGI on line 11 of Form 1040
•If you’re filing a 2025 return, use the AGI from your 2024 return
•Don’t use the AGI from Form 1040-X (used for amended returns)
If you filed jointly last year:
•There is one combined AGI on the joint return
•Both you and your spouse must enter that same full AGI amount
•Don't split the AGI or enter individual amounts
If you filed separately last year:
•Each spouse enters their own AGI from their separate return
Make sure it’s entered exactly
Even small differences can cause a rejection.
•Enter the full AGI exactly as shown on last year’s return
•Follow rounding instructions in april
•Double-check for typos or missing digits
If you don’t have last year’s return
You can get your AGI directly from the IRS.
•Request a free IRS tax transcript
•Online transcripts are available right away
•Look for the line labeled Adjusted gross income
•Don’t calculate AGI from W-2s or 1099s
When entering “0” may work
You can try entering 0 if:
•You mailed last year’s return
•It wasn’t processed before the IRS opened e-file for this tax season
In this situation, the IRS may not have your prior-year AGI available yet.
If you’re still getting rejected
If none of the steps above work, you still have options.
•Request an Identity Protection PIN (IP PIN) from the IRS
•Enter your IP PIN in april and resubmit your return
•If e-file still isn’t accepted, you’ll need to print and mail your return to the IRS
This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, financial, accounting, or other advice. Rules and regulations vary by location and are subject to change, so please consult with an expert if you need advice specific to you.
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