Getting a "Duplicate Social Security Number" error when submitting dependent child's taxes

[godzillatemple]

My wife and I filed jointly and listed our 17-year-old son as a dependent.  After successfully submitting our return, I attempted to file a separate return on behalf of our son since he worked part time last year (earning about $7500) and is due a refund from federal and state taxes.  I listed that he was being claimed on our return and filled everything out.  After paying for the direct deposit fees, I clicked on the "Transmit Returns Now" button and got the following error message:

"Duplicate Social Security Number.  A tax return with the same Social Security number has already been submitted - in other words, it appears you're trying to e-file the same return twice.  If you need to change this return, you'll need to file an amended return on paper, by mail.  If you'd like to e-file your state return using TurboTax, it will need to be filed along with your federal return.  You may also e-file your federal return now, then submit your state return later via TurboTax, by mail, or by visiting your state's website for alternative e-filing options."

Any idea what is going on and what can be done?  Did I need to purchase a separate copy of TurboTax in order to file his return?

[bosso3]

I'm not an expert, but here are some comments.

1)  Perhaps your dependent or someone else already filed a return for them?

2)  Double check the personal information you entered for your dependent's return.  Be sure that the box labeled I can be claimed as someone's dependent is checked.

See:  https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/taxes/discussion/where-do-i-enter-i-can-be-claimed-as-a-dependent/...

3)  It looks like you are using the desktop version of Turbotax, which allows for multiple e-filings

https://turbotax.intuit.com/personal-taxes/compare/desktop/

4)  It may be possible that your dependent is a victim of fraud.

[DianeW777 · Accepted solution]

No, you did not need to purchase another TurboTax CD/Download since you are using that version for your own.

Occasionally, the IRS does reject a return when the filer has been listed on another tax return. It's not common.  Check the entry of date of birth, social security number and the last name (these are the pieces of criteria the IRS is using for validation). I don't doubt you have all the information correct, but look for any spaces that shouldn't be there. If everything is correct and you continue to have the return rejected you should print and mail your son's return.