Reurn rejected--dependent problem

Forum|Forum|2 months ago
March 20, 2026
1 reply
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My return was rejected because one of my dependents filed their return without indicating we would claim them as a dependent. Should I just remove them as a dependent and re-file? I had taxes to pay, so removing them means the amount I had to pay increases. What to do?

Best answer by xmasbaby0

Expert Reviewed

MY DEPENDENT SAID HE COULD NOT BE CLAIMED

Your dependent made a very common mistake often made by teenagers and students who are filing their first tax returns. In MY INFO they should have said that they can be claimed as someone else’s dependent—-but they answered incorrectly and now your e-file is being rejected.

Your dependent will have to amend their return to change the way they answered that question in MY INFO. They cannot amend until their return has been fully processed. But you do not have to wait for them to amend. Waiting will not help you at all.

You can file your return by mail, since mailed returns are not rejected. It will take longer for the IRS to process your mailed return and delay your refund.

OR….Get an IP PIN to e-file.

GET IP pin in order to e-file if your dependent’s SSN was claimed on another return

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-takes-steps-to-help-prevent-refund-delays-by-accepting-duplicate-dependent-returns-with-an-ip-pin-for-2025-filing-season-taxpayers-encouraged-to-sign-up-soon-for-ip-pin-online-account

https://www.irs.gov/identity-theft-fraud-scams/get-an-identity-protection-pin

xmasbaby0

Answer