Why did I get this rejection?
This rejection means the name or Social Security number (SSN) on your return doesn’t exactly match what the Social Security Administration has on file. Until they match, the IRS won’t accept your return.
Common reasons this happens:
Entering “Jon” instead of “John”
Missing a hyphen or space in your last name
Using a new last name that hasn’t been updated with Social Security yet
How to fix it
Check your information carefully, update it in april, then resubmit your return.
Start here:
Match your Social Security card exactly
Check your SSN digit by digit and use your last name exactly as shown.Look for small differences
Hyphens, spaces, punctuation, or multiple last names can cause mismatches.Recently changed your name?
Use the name currently on your Social Security card (or your previous name if it hasn’t been updated yet).Fix it in april
Go to Tax home → Make updates → Update my info, correct the mismatch, then resubmit.
Common name formatting issues
Make sure your name matches exactly what the Social Security Administration has on file.
Hyphenated last names
Remove the hyphen and enter the name as one word
Example: Gomez-Fernandez → GomezFernandezMultiple last names
Combine all last names without spaces or hyphens
Example: Gomez Fernandez → GomezFernandezNames with middle names
Enter your name exactly as it appears on your Social Security card
If you recently changed your name
Use the name currently shown on your Social Security card
If your card hasn’t been updated yet, use your previous name
The IRS can only match what Social Security has on file.
Make corrections and resubmit
Once you’ve confirmed the correct name and Social Security number:
Update your return in april
Save your changes
Resubmit your return
If the information is correct but the rejection continues
If everything matches your Social Security card and the IRS still rejects your return, the issue may be with Social Security records.
In this case:
Contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) at 800-772-1213
Or visit ssa.gov to request a correction
Ask when the update will be shared with the IRS
Once SSA updates their records, you can try e-filing again.
If you need to file before the issue is fixed
If correcting Social Security records will take time and you’re close to the filing deadline:
Print your tax return
Sign and date it
Mail it to the IRS using paper filing instructions
Paper filing allows your return to be processed even if e-file isn’t available.
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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