Amended return stuck in a "transmission trouble" loop

[toph71]

I tried submitting an amended 2024 return this week. Near the end, I got a confusing message:

"Returns other than CA must be mailed." (I'm a CA resident.)

I took this to mean that I could not file amended return with the IRS electronically. But on the subsequent steps, it let me choose e-file for my federal. Just after I hit Submit, it said I needed to update the app. (I'm using Deluxe for Mac.) So I did that. When I resubmitted, it DID accept my CA form...but my federal form status is ambiguous:

"Transmission trouble – please try again."

So I've tried repeating those steps. But every time I go through the File steps again, it shows only my CA form (accepted), and lands me back at the same e-file status ("Transmission trouble") for my federal form.

Do I have to print out my 1040-X and mail it to the IRS? I'm only nervous because I put in my payment into for the IRS, and I don't want to pay them twice. Thanks.

[CatinaT1]

This is a known issue for MAC users. You will need to paper file your Federal Amended return. 

[CatinaT1 · Accepted solution]

There is a workaround. Would you be willing to try this workaround for testing purposes? It doesn’t always work, so I would need you to reply and let me know if this works for you. 

This workaround, when it works, unblocks and resets the efile status for the tax return which could be achieved. 

You need to change the SSN to dummy SSN (like all zeros in ssn) and perform check efile status, then re-enter your real SSN afterward.  The steps are listed below.

Steps:
 

• Change SSN to dummy SSN (like all zeros in ssn) in personal info
• Go to File tab and perform efile status check -> No status will be displayed
• Changed SSN back to original SSN
• Go to File tab and perform efile status check -> Will/Should show correct status for the filing
• Go to file a return section and file amend return, the product will allow to file amend return now.

@toph71 

[toph71]

Darn, @CatinaT1 : I already printed and mailed it in. But thanks for the workaround.