topic Re: !040 rejection in After you file

!040 rejection

jbanner1 — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 14:39:55 GMT

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.

Re: !040 rejection

VolvoGirl — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 19:37:01 GMT

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

Re: !040 rejection

jbanner1 — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 19:43:14 GMT

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.

Re: !040 rejection

TeresaM — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 20:09:54 GMT

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

Re: !040 rejection

jbanner1 — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 21:32:05 GMT

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.

Re: !040 rejection

CarissaM — Sat, 18 Mar 2023 15:17:24 GMT

We are happy to hear that solved it!

Please let us know if we can further assist you.