My return was denied because I am listed as a dependent on my moms return. this has never happened before

[MollsBBU]

Did you specify on your return that you could be claimed as a dependent?

[patrickeckenfels]

yes: this is what the rejection says.  I also cannot figure out how to start over entirely because I can't find where my error is.   

If the Primary Taxpayer is claimed as an exemption in the return, then the Primary SSN must not be the same as a Dependent SSN on another return.

What needs to be done:
This return was rejected by the IRS, because an exemption has been claimed for the taxpayer, but the taxpayer's SSN has already been entered as a dependent on another return. The taxpayer's SSN cannot be used to claim an exemption on two separate tax returns. Verify that the taxpayer's SSN has been entered correctly. If the Taxpayer's information is correct and you want to file electronically, the personal exemption cannot be claimed for the taxpayer on this return. If you wish to claim the personal exemption for the taxpayer on this return, you must print and file by mail.

[MollsBBU]

Okay, you should go back in to the preparation and revisit that entry to correct and resubmit.

1. Click the Personal Info tab
2. Go through the necessary interview screens (if applicable), until you reach "Personal info summary"
3. To edit your own dependency status, click Edit next to your name. Scroll down to section 3. "A few other IRS-required things". "Someone else can claim me on their tax return." will be the first question of that section.
4. Select Yes.