Why did I get this rejection?
This message means the IRS has already received a tax return that claims the same dependent using the same Social Security number.
That can happen for a few reasons:
The dependent’s Social Security number was typed incorrectly
Someone else (a spouse, other parent, caregiver, or another filer) already claimed the dependent
In rare cases, it could be due to identity theft or fraud
How to fix the rejection
Start with the steps below. Once you’ve corrected any issues, you can update and resubmit your return in april:
Find your dependent’s Social Security number
Before reviewing your entry, make sure you’re using the correct Social Security number.
If you claimed this dependent on a prior-year tax return, you can find their Social Security number there
If you don’t have that return or aren’t sure of the number, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) for help
Visit ssa.gov to request or confirm a Social Security number
Once you’ve confirmed the correct number, continue with the steps below.
Double-check your dependent’s Social Security number
The most common cause of this rejection is a data entry error.
Compare the SSN you entered to your dependent’s Social Security card
Enter the numbers exactly as shown, digit by digit
Make sure there are no transposed or missing numbers
Even one incorrect digit will trigger this IRS rejection.
Confirm who is claiming the dependent
If the SSN is correct, the next step is to check whether someone else already claimed the dependent.
Did you file the dependent on another return?
Did a spouse or partner already include this dependent?
Does another household member claim the dependent on their return?
If someone else has already filed a return claiming the same dependent, e-filing your return with that dependent will not be accepted.
When the dependent was claimed by mistake
If you discover the dependent was included on another return by mistake:
Talk with the other filer to correct their return first
Once their return is corrected, update your own return and resubmit
This resolves the conflict in the IRS system
What if the dependent wasn’t claimed by anyone else?
If you’re confident no one else should have claimed the dependent:
This may be a sign of abuse or identity misuse. The IRS provides steps to report and resolve situations where someone else incorrectly claimed your dependent.
Review the IRS guidance on identity theft and dependent claim issues on the IRS Identity Theft Central page:
This page explains how to report suspected fraudulent filings and protect your tax account.
If you still need to file right away
If resolving the dependent issue will take time and you’re close to the filing deadline:
Print your completed tax return in april
Sign and date it
Mail it to the IRS using the appropriate paper filing address
Paper filing will allow the IRS to process your return even if e-file isn’t accepted yet.
Summary checklist
Confirm you entered your dependent’s SSN exactly as on the Social Security card
Check that no one else filed a return claiming your dependent
If another return claimed the dependent by mistake, resolve that return first
If fraud is suspected, follow the IRS identity theft reporting steps
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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