How do I fix a rejected return when using the Desktop app? The info I am given by TurboTax is to sign in to the online version. I did not submit through Turbotax online.

When you sign into your TurboTax Desktop program you should be able to see a message that says Fix My Return. You would click on that button and it should take you to the area of your return that needs to be fixed.

This rejection means the IRS database does not recognize the VIN, usually because the dealer failed to submit the Clean VehicleSeller Report (Form 15400) to the IRS Energy Credits Online (ECO) system, or the VIN was entered incorrectly. 

To fix the SA-F8936-030-01 rejection in TurboTax Desktop, you must correct the VIN on Schedule A (Form 8936) by navigating to the vehicle credit section. If it is correct delete it and re-enter it.  You can also verify that  the 17-character VIN on your paperwork matches what is on Form 8936. Any digit that looks like an o should be entered a zero.  Also, double check the date placed in service exactly matches the day the dealer listed.

Some users have reported that when they click the fix my return button they are told to check the box near the VIN input that you certify the correct VIN and resubmit the return. If you are able to do that it may enable you to e-file and have to not mail your tax return.  

If you still get a rejection it is likely because the dealer did not submit the proper report or there is some kind of mismatch with the IRS.  Contact the dealership to make sure they electronically submitted the sale information to the IRS Energy Credits Online (ECO) system.

If this is the case and you are still unable to e-file you would have to attach a document titled "Substantiate VIN" to your tax return and mail the return. This tells the IRS to manually verify the attached documentation. Include Form 8936 and the Clean Vehicle Seller Report (Form 15400), and a letter explaining the VIN. See: How do I file my return by mail?

To get to this section in TurboTax you can:

1. Click on search at the top right of your TurboTax screen
2. Type electric vehicle credit in the search box
3. Click on the link that says Jump to electric vehicle credit
4. Go through your TurboTax screens and make sure everything is correct
5. Delete and re-enter-your VIN

If you have additional information or questions regarding this, please return to Community and we would be glad to help.