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First, to get this year's return filed, try using $0 as the AGI or indicating that he didn't file a return last year.  It is entirely possible that his 2023 return hasn't yet been processed as there is a significant backlog of processing for mailed in returns at this time.     If that's the case, either the 0 for AGI or "no return was filed" (which really means no return has yet been processed) should work to get this year's return filed.   If this works, then after this return is processed, the automated database may work again for finding out about his 2023 return.   The most likely issue with the automated system is a mismatch of either the ZIP code or birthday in their system, and not that he's been deleted from the records.  The ZIP code the IRS is usually looking for is the one on the last return filed in their system, or the one that has been presented on the most recent change of address form.  If they don't have one on file (which can happen if they've not yet processed any returns for him) then you will need to speak to a representative to try some other methods of verifying his identity.  If he has moved since the last return that you know was processed, try the old ZIP code if it is known.  Sometimes, for reasons that we simply don't know, the Social Security database can mix up a birthday, too, but usually this comes up with the first e-filed return.  If this is the case, and you can get past the AGI issue to file, you'd get a different e-file reject based on a birthday mismatch.