My tax return was rejected because my dependent mother's SSN was frozen due to her death in November. But she was still my dependent, so why can't I claim her?

[mnodine]

She met all the criteria for being a dependent.  Does this mean I have to file a paper copy of my return?  Will that be rejected, too?

[DanielV01 · Accepted solution]

If the SSN is still frozen, and you can't e-file, then you will paper-file the return if you wish to claim the mother.  An alternative to paper-filing the original return is to e-file the return electronically without including the mother as a dependent, and after it is accepted, amend the return to include her as a dependent.  This allows you to get the majority of the refund more quickly)

A paper-filed return does not get rejected, but can get examined more thoroughly.  If the information does not match the IRS' database, for example, they can send a letter to request the information.  However, you can also send the information showing her death along with the return to assist processing.

Losing a loved one is always difficult.  We are sorry for your loss.