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Level 2
posted Mar 17, 2023 12:32:17 PM

!040 rejection

For the second year, my electronic filing has been rejected three times by the IRS.  Each time, the obstacle is my EIN number.  It is correct--that is, it is the number given to me by the IRS a few decades ago.  I check and re-check it.  I re-type it in the files.  Nothing works.  Does anyone have a suggestion as what I should try to do to circumvent the problem?  I can of course file by mail.  I would prefer not to.

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1 Best answer
Expert Alumni
Mar 17, 2023 1:09:54 PM

Does the error message refer to the Employer Identification Number you use for Schedule H

If the IRS is rejecting the return and referencing that number, then you may need to call them and verify what they are showing on their side. 

IRS phone numbers:

  • For individuals: 800-829-1040
    • 7AM to 7PM local time
  • For businesses: 800-829-4933
    • 7AM to 7PM local time
  • For those with hearing impairments: TTY/TDD 800-829-4059
     

They will need to verify your identity. Be prepared with:

  • Your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
  • Your filing status (Single, Head of Household, Married Filing Jointly, or Married Filing Separate)
  • Your prior-year tax return (they may ask you questions from it to verify your identity)
  • A copy of the tax return you’re calling about

5 Replies
Level 15
Mar 17, 2023 12:37:01 PM

An EIN number for what?  You use your ssn to file a tax return.  

Level 2
Mar 17, 2023 12:43:14 PM

Of course.  But my EIN is required because I employ household help, pay her social security taxes, file a W-2 for her, and the like.

Expert Alumni
Mar 17, 2023 1:09:54 PM

Does the error message refer to the Employer Identification Number you use for Schedule H

If the IRS is rejecting the return and referencing that number, then you may need to call them and verify what they are showing on their side. 

IRS phone numbers:

  • For individuals: 800-829-1040
    • 7AM to 7PM local time
  • For businesses: 800-829-4933
    • 7AM to 7PM local time
  • For those with hearing impairments: TTY/TDD 800-829-4059
     

They will need to verify your identity. Be prepared with:

  • Your Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number
  • Your filing status (Single, Head of Household, Married Filing Jointly, or Married Filing Separate)
  • Your prior-year tax return (they may ask you questions from it to verify your identity)
  • A copy of the tax return you’re calling about

Level 2
Mar 17, 2023 2:32:05 PM

That  did it, for which my great thanks.  The problem--for our own future use with others--is that if an EIN isn't used (as mine wasn't) for roughly 20 years, it is made inactive and apparently cannot be reactivated.  You need to get a new one, as I did.

Intuit Alumni
Mar 18, 2023 8:17:24 AM

We are happy to hear that solved it! 

Please let us know if we can further assist you.